American Trio Keys, Collins, and Anisimova Reach Charleston Open Round of 16

Madison Keys, Amanda Anisimova, and defending champion Danielle Collins made a clean sweep for the USA in the second round of the WTA 500 Credit One Charleston Open. All three American players secured their places in the Round of 16 on Tuesday.

Second-seeded Madison Keys faced a challenging match against fellow American Caroline Dolehide but ultimately won in straight sets, 6-3, 7-6(4). Despite needing eight match points to close out the victory, Keys demonstrated resilience. She had a lead with a set and a break, and held four match points at 6-3, 5-4. Dolehide fought back, leveling the second set, but Keys held firm in the tiebreak to secure her 20th win of the year.

Keys, currently at a career-high ranking of World No. 5, expressed relief after the match, joking about the escalating drama and the desire to finish the game. She is aiming for her second Charleston title, having won in 2019, which was her first clay-court title. Charleston holds a special place for Keys, as she mentioned getting married there and considering it one of her favorite places.

Defending champion Danielle Collins continued her strong form on Credit One Stadium, starting her title defense with a victory over another American, Robin Montgomery. Seeded No. 7, Collins defeated Montgomery 6-3, 6-1 in just over an hour. This marks her seventh consecutive win in Charleston. Collins` title run last year was part of a 15-match winning streak, propelling her back into the Top 10. She highlighted her mindset and relentless approach as keys to her victory.

Amanda Anisimova, seeded No. 8, concluded the night on Credit One Stadium with a 6-2, 6-2 win against Veronika Kudermetova, the 2021 Charleston champion. This victory was significant for Anisimova as it was her first win against Kudermetova after two previous losses. Anisimova, who reached the Charleston semifinals in 2022, is playing arguably her best tennis. After winning the WTA 1000 Doha title in February, she recently achieved a career-high ranking of No. 16.

More updates to follow…