In a gripping second-round showdown at the Charleston Open, top-seeded Jessica Pegula showcased her resilience by storming back from a set down to defeat Amanda Anisimova 3-6, 6-4, 7-6 (3).
Despite facing a formidable opponent, Pegula’s seven aces underscored her determination, clinching victory despite converting only 4 of 15 break points. Anisimova’s commendable performance, capitalizing on 4 of 8 break points, added to the intensity of the match.
Acknowledging Anisimova’s prowess as a formidable ball striker, Pegula emphasized her strategic adaptation during the match. “I just kind of found a way today,” Pegula remarked, praising the elevated level of play, especially in the final set.
In other notable matches, third-seeded Maria Sakkari secured her spot in the third round with a commanding 6-3, 6-4 win over Viktoriya Tomova, while Magda Linette orchestrated a remarkable comeback, rallying from a love-set deficit to overcome No. 13 seed Dayana Yastremska 0-6, 6-4, 6-3.
Miami Open champion Danielle Collins and former U.S. Open champion Sloane Stephens also made waves in the first round. Collins, disclosing her decision to retire due to endometriosis, displayed her trademark grit in a convincing 6-1, 6-4 victory over Paula Badosa. Meanwhile, Stephens, reveling in her preferred clay-court environment, dominated Magdalena Frech 6-0, 6-2.
As the Charleston Open unfolds, tennis enthusiasts can anticipate more thrilling matches and inspiring performances from the tournament’s standout players, including Taylor Townsend, Astra Sharma, Caroline Dolehide, Ashlyn Krueger, and Elisabetta Cocciaretto.
