Who is involved
Before the Charleston Open, expectations were clear: Madison Keys, ranked No. 18 in the world, was the favorite. With a powerful game and a history of success, she was poised to dominate. Meanwhile, Yuliia Starodubtseva, ranked No. 89, was seen as an underdog, making her debut at this prestigious tournament.
However, the tide turned dramatically. Starodubtseva shocked the crowd by defeating McCartney Kessler with a score of 6-4, 6-4, securing her place in the semifinals. Keys also advanced, overcoming Belinda Bencic in a hard-fought match that ended 4-6, 6-3, 6-2. The stage was set for an intriguing clash.
This semifinal match, scheduled for April 4, 2026, at 2:30 PM ET, marks the first head-to-head meeting between these two players. Starodubtseva’s impressive performance against Kessler has raised eyebrows, as she notched her maiden WTA semifinal. The stakes are high, with a prize purse of $2.3 million on the line.
Starodubtseva’s journey to this point is remarkable. She entered the tournament as a relative unknown but has quickly made a name for herself. Her victory over Kessler showcased her resilience and skill, qualities that will be essential against a seasoned opponent like Keys.
On the other hand, Keys is no stranger to high-pressure situations. With a solid track record, she brings experience and confidence to the court. Her ability to rally back from a set down against Bencic demonstrates her fighting spirit, which will be crucial in this upcoming match.
Experts are weighing in on this matchup, noting the contrasting styles of play. Starodubtseva’s agility and strategic shot placement could pose challenges for Keys, who relies on her powerful serves and aggressive baseline play. The matchup promises to be a thrilling contest, with both players eager to secure a spot in the finals.
As anticipation builds, fans are eager to see if Starodubtseva can continue her Cinderella story or if Keys will assert her dominance. The outcome remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: this semifinal is set to be a defining moment for both players.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding any last-minute changes to the schedule or player conditions, but the excitement surrounding this match is undeniable.
