Wednesday marks the start of the second round at the WTA Credit One Charleston Open, featuring a series of captivating encounters on Daniel Island’s distinctive green clay courts. For many competitors, this tournament presents their initial significant challenge on clay in 2026. Factors like agility, endurance in rallies, and rapid adaptation to the slower court conditions will be crucial. We’ve analyzed the day’s lineup to provide our match predictions. Let’s see who is favored to progress.
WTA Charleston Day 3 Match Previews
Yuliia Starodubtseva vs Ekaterina Alexandrova
Head-to-Head: First professional encounter
Yuliia Starodubtseva delivered a strong performance in her first-round victory, comfortably defeating Shuai Zhang in straight sets, demonstrating her potential at this tier. Conversely, Ekaterina Alexandrova has been a model of consistency this season, boasting a superior ranking and more formidable baseline power. Her composure under pressure is notable, suggesting she will effectively control points from the back of the court on this clay surface.
Prediction: Alexandrova in straight sets.
Peyton Stearns vs Ashlyn Krueger
Head-to-Head: Stearns leads 1–0
These two American players arrive with commendable recent hard-court performances, now transitioning to their first major clay court challenge of the season. Krueger impressed with a semi-final appearance in Austin, characterized by powerful serving and strategic aggression. Stearns surpassed her that same week, reaching the final, and has recently displayed a more consistent overall game. Her potent topspin forehand and agile movement are expected to adapt well to the slower clay.
Prediction: Stearns in two sets.
Leylah Fernandez vs Polina Kudermetova
Head-to-Head: No prior meetings
Leylah Fernandez, the ninth seed, has endured a challenging start to 2026, holding a 3-8 record and yet to compete on clay this season. In contrast, Polina Kudermetova successfully navigated the qualifying rounds, winning two matches to secure her main draw spot. This additional match practice and court time often proves advantageous on clay. Nevertheless, Fernandez possesses greater experience at this level; her left-handed serve and diverse all-court game are generally effective on green clay once she finds her rhythm.
Prediction: Fernandez in straight sets.
Jessica Pegula vs Yulia Putintseva
Head-to-Head: Pegula leads 3–0
Yulia Putintseva displayed her characteristic tenacity by overcoming Lulu Sun in the first round; she consistently proves to be a challenging and persistent competitor capable of disrupting opponents. Jessica Pegula, the reigning champion, has maintained excellent form throughout the current season and holds a perfect 3-0 record against Putintseva. While their previous encounters were on hard courts, Pegula’s consistent baseline play and composure under duress are well-suited for clay.
Prediction: Pegula in two sets.
