Sofia Kenin funnily stated the obvious that “one American is going to win the Charleston title” before getting serious and acknowledging that beating Jessica Pegula in their French Open match probably doesn’t mean a lot heading into their big final.
On Saturday, the 2020 Australian Open champion – who is currently ranked at No. 44 in the world – was 5-2 up against Amanda Anisimova when fellow American Amanda Anisimova retired due to a hip issue.
Now, Kenin is for another all-American battle – this time versus top seed Pegula. Since Danielle Collins won Charleston last year, the American clay tournament is set to have a local winner for the second year in a row.
“Well, one American is going to win the title (laughing), so that’s great! I think it’s great for American tennis, for the crowd. and for everyone,” the former world No. 4 said on Tennis Channel.
Kenin on facing Pegula in the Charleston final
“I’m excited for the match tomorrow! She played well obviously so, I’ve got nothing to lose. I’m gonna come out swinging and if you can make the conditions a little bit easier, it would be nice to have a fair shot tomorrow and I would appreciate that,” the 26-year-old said.
Pegula has a 3-2 head-to-head against Kenin but the latter won their last clay meeting at the 2021 French Open. When told about it, the current world No. 44 didn’t give it too much of significance.
“I mean, that was years ago. She is a different player – in a much better way. And me, getting there, to the feistiness,” the 2020 Australian Open champion added.
12/10 feistiness needed 😅
Sofia Kenin gives her thoughts on facing Jessica Pegula in the Charleston final 🎤#CharlestonOpen pic.twitter.com/0e2BFzBriD
— Tennis Channel (@TennisChannel) April 5, 2025
If Kenin beats Pegula and wins Charleston, it will be her first WTA title in just over five years.
Tennis World USA