Jessica Pegula reaches Charleston semis with 3rd straight comeback win

Top seed rallies from opening set loss to defeat Diana Shnaider and advance to semifinals

Apr. 4, 2026 at 8:14pm

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For the third consecutive day, No. 1 seed Jessica Pegula dropped the opening set but fought back to win, this time defeating seventh-seeded Russian Diana Shnaider 3-6, 6-3, 6-2 to advance to the semifinals of the Charleston Open on Friday. Pegula's serve was the difference, as she had eight aces and no double faults, while Shnaider had just one ace and six double faults.

Why it matters

Pegula's ability to overcome early deficits and rally to victory demonstrates her mental toughness and resilience as the top seed. Her semifinal appearance continues her strong start to the 2026 season and keeps her on track to defend her Charleston Open title.

The details

Pegula dug herself a 2-0 hole in the third set before winning six straight games to clinch the victory. Her three matches this week have taken over seven combined hours, showcasing her endurance and determination. Next up for Pegula is a semifinal matchup against fellow American Iva Jovic, who swept No. 8 Anna Kalinskaya in the quarterfinals.

  • Pegula defeated Diana Shnaider on Friday, April 4, 2026.
  • Pegula's three matches this week have taken over seven combined hours.

The players

Jessica Pegula

The No. 1 seed and reigning Charleston Open champion, who has rallied from opening set losses in three straight matches to reach the semifinals.

Diana Shnaider

The seventh-seeded Russian player who lost to Pegula in the quarterfinals.

Iva Jovic

The No. 4 seed American player who will face Pegula in the semifinals after sweeping No. 8 Anna Kalinskaya.

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What’s next

Pegula will face fellow American Iva Jovic in the semifinals on Saturday, April 5, 2026.

The takeaway

Jessica Pegula's ability to overcome early deficits and rally to victory demonstrates her mental toughness and resilience as the top seed. Her semifinal appearance keeps her on track to defend her Charleston Open title and continue her strong start to the 2026 season.