In a groundbreaking move, the Charleston Open has set a new standard in the world of tennis by announcing equal prize money for all players starting in 2026. This historic decision comes on the heels of World No.3 Jessica Pegula’s impressive victory over Sofia Kenin in the Charleston Open final, where she pocketed $164,000. However, Pegula couldn’t help but express her disappointment as the equal pay initiative will only come into effect next year.
The tournament’s owner, Ben Navarro, and his company Credit One Bank have extended their title partnership with the Charleston Open through 2031, solidifying their commitment to gender equality in tennis. Pegula commended the Navarro family for spearheading this change, acknowledging the significant impact it will have on women’s tennis in the United States.
With the prize money set to increase to approximately $1.15 million in 2026, the Charleston Open aims to align itself with the ATP events’ prize pools, a move that signals progress towards gender parity in the sport. Pegula’s victory in the Charleston Open marked her second title of the season, solidifying her position as a formidable force on the court.
Following her triumph, Pegula ascended to the coveted World No.3 spot, dethroning Coco Gauff as the American No.1 player. Gauff, who started the season strongly, has faced challenges in maintaining her form, paving the way for Pegula to claim the top spot. With 17 wins in her last 19 matches, Pegula is poised to continue her winning streak as she sets her sights on the upcoming Stuttgart Open.
As the landscape of women’s tennis evolves, Pegula’s rise to prominence serves as a testament to her skill and determination on the court. With the Charleston Open paving the way for equal pay in the sport, the future looks promising for female athletes seeking recognition and equity in the world of professional tennis.