WTA Clay: Pegula Retains Charleston Title, Eyes Madrid
Key Questions
How did Jessica Pegula win the Charleston title?
Pegula retained her Charleston Open title by crushing Yuliia Starodubtseva 6-2 6-2, securing her second 2026 title. She has 24 wins, surpassing Sabalenka in form at #5.
What were Pegula's prior matches in Charleston?
Prior to the final, Pegula defeated Cocciaretto and Yuan. Earlier matches included Kessler vs Tjen.
What is Pegula's form leading into Madrid?
Pegula's dominant Charleston retention boosts her #5 ranking and clay form ahead of Madrid. She eyes further success post-24 wins in 2026.
Are there connections to other WTA clay events?
Eala's Linz/La Bisbal, plus Stuttgart/Bogota, are watchpoints pre-Madrid. Charleston aligns with broader WTA clay schedule.
Who was the first-time finalist in Charleston?
Yuliia Starodubtseva was the first-time finalist, losing convincingly to Pegula. Matches like Pegula vs Putintseva and Cocciaretto were part of the draw.
Pegula crushes Starodubtseva 6-2 6-2 to retain Charleston (2nd 2026 title, 24 wins > Sabalenka, #5 form); prior: Kessler/Tjen, Cocciaretto/Yuan. Eala Stuttgart/Linz/La Bisbal, Bogota pre-Madrid watch.