Leading contender Jessica Pegula successfully defended her Charleston Open championship, securing an easy win over newcomer finalist Yuliia Starodubtseva.
The US player bested her unranked adversary with a score of 6-2, 6-2, marking her second trophy this year, building on her success at the Dubai Tennis Championships earlier in February.
The athlete, aged 32, who had triumphed in four straight three-set encounters to reach the decisive match, also demonstrated considerable resilience on occasion when facing Starodubtseva, fending off seven of eight break points to clinch a decisive victory.
This marked her 24th win in what has been a consistent season, propelling Pegula past current world number one Aryna Sabalenka to lead the WTA victories chart for the current year.
“My gratitude goes out to the supporters who cheered me on for the entire week,” Pegula stated.
“A lot of matches went to three sets. It’s been a very demanding week for me, and your encouragement helped me get through so many contests day after day. Therefore, a huge thank you – I truly enjoy competing in this venue.”
Starodubtseva progressed smoothly to her inaugural final, but encountered difficulties when facing the fifth-ranked player globally, committing 41 unforced errors.
Nevertheless, the Ukrainian’s performance in South Carolina led to her ascending 36 positions, achieving her highest-ever ranking at 53.
