“I’ve got nothing to lose”: Sofia Kenin ready to challenge Jessica Pegula in Charleston final

Former world No. 4 Sofia Kenin has advanced to the final of the Charleston Open, where she’ll face top seed Jessica Pegula in an all-American clash. The 26-year-old said she feels increasingly close to her best level and expressed her joy at ensuring a new American champion for the tournament.

Both players have previously reached finals on clay but have yet to win a title on the surface. Kenin lost to Iga Swiatek in the 2020 Roland Garros final, while Pegula was runner-up to Ons Jabeur at the 2022 Madrid Open.

Kenin has been in superb form in Charleston, defeating high-profile opponents such as former champion Belinda Bencic (17th seed), Daria Kasatkina (5th), and Anna Kalinskaya (14th). In the semi-final, she was set to play compatriot Amanda Anisimova, but unfortunately the 8th seed had to retire due to injury with Kenin leading 5-2.

Still, the former Australian Open champion is a more than deserving finalist, having reached this stage without dropping a set and brimming with confidence. She’s already secured a rise to at least world No. 34 and would return to the top 30 if she lifts the title.

The American’s impressive week will conclude on Sunday in the final against Pegula. Regardless of the outcome, Kenin is already happy with her performance. With Pegula being the favourite as the top seed and world No. 4, Kenin has shifted the pressure onto her opponent. “Well, one American is going to win the final, so that’s already great,” she told Tennis Channel.

“I’m excited for the match tomorrow. I played Jessie at the US Open, that was a close one — especially the first set. The second… we don’t have to talk about that. But she obviously played well,” Kenin added with a smile. “I’ve got nothing to lose, I’m gonna come out swinging. And you know, if you can make the conditions a little bit easier, would be nice to have a fair shot tomorrow — then I would appreciate that,” she concluded.