Pegula Grateful for Evert's 'Big Compliment' Amid Charleston Heroics

Jessica Pegula reacts to praise from 18-time Grand Slam champion Chris Evert following her impressive run to the Charleston Open final.

Apr. 5, 2026 at 2:22am

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Jessica Pegula's commanding run to the Charleston Open final has drawn widespread admiration, with 18-time Grand Slam champion Chris Evert among those left impressed. Evert praised Pegula's 'magical powers' during her impressive victories over Yulia Putintseva, Elisabetta Cocciaretto, and Diana Shnaider. Pegula, the top seed, acknowledged Evert's kind words, attributing her success to her stamina, mental fortitude, and a bit of luck.

Why it matters

Pegula's impressive performance at the Charleston Open has cemented her status as one of the top players on the WTA Tour. Her ability to overcome a challenging draw and reach the final has earned her praise from a tennis legend like Chris Evert, further solidifying her reputation as a rising star in the sport.

The details

Pegula battled past Yulia Putintseva, Elisabetta Cocciaretto, and Diana Shnaider in three-set contests before setting up a semifinal clash against rising compatriot Iva Jovic. After a tight first set, Pegula regained her composure and secured a 6-4, 4-6, 6-3 victory to reach the final, where she will face first-time finalist Yulia Starodubtseva.

  • Pegula reached the Charleston Open final on April 4, 2026.
  • The Charleston Open final will take place on April 5, 2026.

The players

Jessica Pegula

The top-seeded American player who is the defending champion of the Charleston Open and is seeking her 11th career title.

Chris Evert

An 18-time Grand Slam champion and former world No. 1 tennis player who praised Pegula's 'magical powers' during her impressive run at the Charleston Open.

Iva Jovic

A rising American player who faced Pegula in the Charleston Open semifinals.

Yulia Starodubtseva

A Ukrainian player who is making her first appearance in a WTA Tour final at the Charleston Open, where she will face Pegula.

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What they’re saying

“After watching her this week in Charleston, I'm convinced @JPegula has magical powers… wonderful match from Jessie and Iva..👏👏👏💪🏼💪🏼💪🏼”

— Chris Evert, 18-time Grand Slam champion

“Oh, well, that's very nice of Chrissy to say that. Um, I don't know! I guess it's my superpower for this week is my stamina, my mental fortitude. I don't know what it is. But, that's a big compliment coming from Chrissy. Yeah, but maybe also like cat with nine lives. I've heard that a few times too. I do feel a bit more like that than a superpower, maybe just a bit more lucky.”

— Jessica Pegula, Top-seeded player

What’s next

Pegula will face Yulia Starodubtseva in the Charleston Open final on April 5, 2026, as she looks to defend her title.

The takeaway

Pegula's impressive run to the Charleston Open final, which has drawn praise from tennis legend Chris Evert, highlights her growing status as one of the top players on the WTA Tour. Her ability to overcome a challenging draw and maintain her composure under pressure has made her a formidable opponent, and her success could inspire more young players to follow in her footsteps.