Pegula Prevails in Charleston Semis, Sets All-American Final Against Kenin

Jessica Pegula demonstrated resilience and tactical adjustments to secure her spot in the Charleston Open final. Facing Ekaterina Alexandrova, a player she had lost to in their two previous encounters this year, Pegula dominated the first set 6-2. However, Alexandrova's powerful game surged in the second, taking it 6-2.

The third set was a tense affair, heavily influenced by gusty winds. Pegula found herself down a break twice but battled back each time. She noted the difficulty of playing against Alexandrova's flat, deep shots, especially in the wind, and mentioned adjusting her serve strategy. At 5-5, Pegula secured a crucial break and served out the match, converting her second match point with a decisive backhand winner.

"It’s been the same kind of storyline in the past when I’ve played her," Pegula commented. "Played a good first set, she comes back in the second, and then, usually, I tend to lose the third. So glad I was able to flip that script today."

Her opponent in the final, Sofia Kenin, had a shorter route. The 2020 Australian Open champion advanced when No. 8 seed Amanda Anisimova unfortunately had to retire with a hip injury early in their match. Kenin expressed sympathy for Anisimova while feeling good about her own level of play throughout the week.

The upcoming final carries historical weight, being the first all-American championship match in Charleston in over three decades. Pegula leads her head-to-head against Kenin 3-2, including a win in their most recent meeting at the 2024 US Open. Pegula also reflected on the positive trend in women's sports visibility, stating, "To be a part of a sport that has led that trend for a long time... I’m very proud to be a part of that sport."

Who is playing in the Charleston Open final?

Jessica Pegula will play against Sofia Kenin in an all-American final.

How did Pegula reach the final?

She defeated Ekaterina Alexandrova 6-2, 2-6, 7-5 in the semi-finals.

Why didn't the Kenin vs. Anisimova semi-final finish?

Amanda Anisimova had to retire from the match due to a right hip injury while trailing Sofia Kenin 5-2 in the first set.

Who do you think will lift the trophy in Charleston – Pegula or Kenin? Let us know your predictions!

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