WTA Charleston Semifinal Showdowns: Pegula, Keys Vie for Final Spots

Anticipation is high for an exciting day of WTA Charleston semifinals. The defending champion, Jessica Pegula, is set to clash with the rising talent Iva Jovic. Following that, 2025 Australian Open winner Madison Keys will compete against Yuliia Starodubtseva. Who will secure their place in Sunday's championship match?

WTA Charleston Semifinal Match Previews

Madison Keys vs Yuliia Starodubtseva

Head-to-head: First meeting

This will be the inaugural encounter between Madison Keys and Yuliia Starodubtseva. Keys reached this stage by overcoming Donna Vekic, Anna Bondar, and Belinda Bencic, while Starodubtseva defeated Shuai Zhang, Ekaterine Gorgodze, Renata Zarazua, and McCartney Kessler. Both athletes have dropped only one set en route to the semifinals. Starodubtseva is known for her precise, powerful groundstrokes, aiming to dominate her opponents. The green clay courts of Charleston offer a medium pace that allows her shots to penetrate the court effectively, giving her ample time to set up her powerful swings.

However, Madison Keys possesses the firepower to match and often exceed Starodubtseva's offensive game. This poses a significant challenge for the lower-ranked player, as her defensive capabilities are not her strongest asset. It's unlikely she'll be able to consistently withstand the formidable serve and powerful groundstrokes from the Grand Slam champion.

Prediction: Keys in 2 sets

Jessica Pegula vs Iva Jovic

Head-to-head: Pegula leads 1-0 against Jovic

Iva Jovic has had a dominant run, not dropping a single set in her victories over Alycia Parks, Sofia Kenin, and Anna Kalinskaya. In stark contrast, Jessica Pegula endured three-set battles against Yulia Putintseva, Elisabetta Cocciaretto, and Diana Shnaider. Despite not always playing her best tennis, last year's champion demonstrated remarkable fighting spirit to advance.

Pegula's arduous path to the semifinals might instill extra confidence in Jovic. However, I predict she won't be able to defeat the 2024 US Open finalist, for two key reasons. Firstly, Pegula's fitness levels are exceptional, suggesting she won't suffer from fatigue despite her recent extended matches. Secondly, while Jovic's game is impressive and rapidly improving, it aligns well with Pegula's style of play. The teenager's serve can be targeted, and her groundstrokes, though strong, are not quite on par with Pegula's.

Prediction: Pegula in 2 sets