In the heat of high-stakes tennis, emotions often run deep—especially after a hard-fought final. But when Jessica Pegula playfully “stole” Aryna Sabalenka’s celebratory drink live on air after the Miami Open final, it was a refreshing reminder of the lighter side of competition. The moment—caught on Tennis Channel’s live broadcast—sent fans into a frenzy, not because of Pegula’s loss, but because of her unexpected post-match “heist.”
The scene unfolded just minutes after Sabalenka sealed her dominant 7–5, 6–2 victory over Pegula in the 2025 Miami Open final. The Belarusian star, known for her booming serve and bold personality, was basking in the moment with her signature post-win treat: the now-iconic “Marg-Aryna,” a custom margarita served at the Tennis Channel interview desk. While Sabalenka answered questions, basking in her third title of the season, Pegula quietly re-entered the picture.
In a moment that surprised both the panel and viewers, Pegula crept up behind the desk, casually lifted Sabalenka’s drink, took a bold sip, and walked off with it as if it were the trophy itself. The studio erupted in laughter. Sabalenka turned mid-sentence, saw what had happened, and burst out laughing—proving that, while Pegula may have lost the match, she won the moment.
Rather than being irked, Sabalenka leaned into the humor. With a wide grin, she raised another glass—Martina Navratilova’s, in fact—and toasted Pegula from afar. “She deserves it,” Sabalenka quipped, referring to Pegula’s solid tournament run. “I would give her the trophy, the points, and the prize money if I could.”
What could have been a solemn or tense moment after a tough loss turned into a viral clip of sportsmanship and good humor. Fans praised both players, not only for their performance but for the spirit they brought to the court—and beyond it. Social media lit up with memes of “Pegula the Pirate,” margarita in hand, and fans flooded the comment sections with jokes, admiration, and appreciation for the rare moment of levity.
While rivalries often define professional tennis, Pegula and Sabalenka showed that mutual respect and genuine friendship can shine just as brightly. The playful exchange was a reminder that athletes, even in moments of pressure and disappointment, can choose laughter over frustration.
This isn’t the first time the women’s tour has showcased its vibrant personalities, but the Sabalenka-Pegula margarita moment might just be one of the most memorable. It served up the perfect cocktail of competitiveness, humor, and camaraderie—something tennis fans don’t always get to savor.
As the 2025 season continues, both women are expected to remain major contenders on the tour. But if this match proved anything, it’s that even after the final point is played, there’s always room for a little fun. And maybe, just maybe, another round
of Marg-Arynas.