Coco Gauff, Lindsey Vonn Hype Up Jessica Pegula After Charleston Title Defense

The American star survives a grueling 11-hour week to retain her WTA 500 crown.

Apr. 7, 2026 at 3:24am

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An abstract, expressionist painting in vibrant neon colors depicting the dynamic movements and energy of a tennis match, capturing the essence of Jessica Pegula's Charleston Open title triumph.Pegula's grit and determination shine through in a neon-hued celebration of her Charleston Open title defense.Charleston Today

Jessica Pegula successfully defended her Charleston Open title after navigating a physically taxing week that included several three-set battles. The 32-year-old American's triumph drew praise from fellow WTA star Coco Gauff and Olympic gold medalist Lindsey Vonn, who highlighted the magnitude of Pegula's accomplishment on social media.

Why it matters

Pegula's Charleston victory marks her second title of the season and cements her status as one of the top players on the WTA Tour. By joining an elite group of multiple-time champions at the event, including legends like Serena Williams and Chris Evert, Pegula has further solidified her place among the game's best.

The details

Pegula's Charleston run was anything but straightforward, as she was repeatedly pushed to the brink, navigating a string of three-set battles against Yulia Putintseva, Elisabetta Cocciaretto, Diana Shnaider, and Iva Jovic in the semifinal. However, the American showed no signs of fatigue in the final, coming back from a 2-1 deficit to rattle off five straight games and seal the opening set 6-2 against Yuliia Starodubtseva. Pegula then stormed into a 5-0 lead in the second set and eventually secured the title 6-2, 6-2.

  • Pegula's Charleston run began with a draining three-hour, 10-minute duel against Yulia Putintseva.
  • The American navigated a string of three-set battles throughout the week, including matches against Elisabetta Cocciaretto, Diana Shnaider, and Iva Jovic in the semifinal.
  • Pegula secured the Charleston Open title on Sunday, April 6, 2026.

The players

Jessica Pegula

A 32-year-old American professional tennis player who successfully defended her Charleston Open title, becoming only the sixth player in history to win the event multiple times.

Coco Gauff

A fellow WTA star and World No. 3 who praised Pegula's Charleston triumph on social media.

Lindsey Vonn

An Olympic gold medalist in alpine skiing who also reacted to Pegula's Instagram post celebrating her Charleston victory.

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What they’re saying

“3 fire emojis”

— Coco Gauff, WTA Star and World No. 3

“2 flexed biceps emojis”

— Lindsey Vonn, Olympic Gold Medalist

What’s next

Pegula will look to build on her Charleston success as she transitions to the clay court swing, with the upcoming Miami Open being her next major tournament.

The takeaway

Jessica Pegula's gutsy Charleston Open title defense, which included navigating a grueling 11-hour week, has cemented her status as one of the top players on the WTA Tour. By joining an elite group of multiple-time champions at the event, Pegula has further solidified her place among the game's best and earned praise from fellow stars like Coco Gauff and Lindsey Vonn.