Madison Keys Poised for Victory at WTA Charleston Open

The WTA Credit One Charleston Open is heating up, with several seeded players entering the second round after first-round byes. The green clay court favors consistent baseline play and strategic movement, making early rhythm and adaptation crucial for success. Here at LWOT, we’re providing detailed predictions for every match. Let’s dive into some key matchups and analyze the potential outcomes.

Keys vs. Vekic: A Clash of Styles

Head-to-Head: Keys 4–1 Vekic

Madison Keys, a former Charleston champion from 2019, enters this match with a significant advantage in the head-to-head record against Donna Vekic, particularly on clay. Vekic demonstrated resilience in qualifying and securing a first-round win against Ajla Tomljanovic, but Keys brings a different level of power and a proven track record on these conditions.

Keys’ ability to dictate play with powerful groundstrokes and her established clay-court pedigree are key factors. She’s likely to set the tone early, putting pressure on Vekic from the outset. While Vekic has shown flashes of form, Keys’ consistency and experience on this surface should prove decisive.

Prediction: Keys in 2

Sakkari vs. Badosa: A Battle of Baseline Power

Head-to-Head: Sakkari 2–1 Badosa

Paula Badosa looked solid in her opening-round victory over Kayla Day, overcoming a slow start to find her rhythm. Maria Sakkari, benefiting from a first-round bye, has consistently displayed strong baseline power throughout 2026. The head-to-head record slightly favors Sakkari, including a positive record on clay.

Sakkari’s heavy groundstrokes are expected to control the longer rallies often seen on this surface, giving her a slight edge in a potentially grueling three-set match. Her ability to absorb pace and redirect the ball will be crucial against Badosa’s aggressive style.

Prediction: Sakkari in 3

Cocciaretto vs. Yuan: Momentum and Aggression

Head-to-Head: Cocciaretto 1–0 Yuan

Lucia Cocciaretto arrives with significant momentum after winning the Hobart title earlier in the season and currently holds a higher ranking. Their previous encounter was a closely contested three-setter, ultimately won by the Italian. Yuan battled through qualifying as a lucky loser and then defeated Mayar Sherif, gaining valuable match time on clay.

However, Cocciaretto’s recent form and aggressive playing style on this surface should allow her to control the match. Her ability to dictate points and capitalize on opportunities will be key to securing a straight-set victory.

Prediction: Cocciaretto in 2

Kessler vs. Tjen: Confidence and Consistency

Head-to-Head: First meeting

Hailey Kessler demonstrated impressive resilience in the first round, battling back from a set down to defeat Elvina Kalieva. This comeback victory should provide a significant confidence boost. Lauren Tjen had a first-round bye but has struggled overall in 2026, with a 5-9 record and four consecutive losses before this event.

With neither player having significant clay-court form this season, surface comfort isn’t a major factor. Kessler’s more consistent ball-striking and the momentum from her opening win should give her the edge in this matchup.

Prediction: Kessler in 3

Stay tuned to LWOT for continued coverage of the WTA Charleston Open, including match recaps, analysis, and predictions.

Main Photo Credit: Robert Deutsch-Imagn Images

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