With the conclusion of the Sunshine Double, the WTA Tour now shifts its focus to the slower, higher-bouncing clay, with the green clay in Charleston set to begin the clay swing as always. The unique conditions and atmosphere of this WTA 500 event always make it a fascinating watch, and on Day 1, we have former US Open champion Sloane Stephens set to tone for the tournament. But that is far from all, and we at LWOT will be giving you predictions for every match that takes place. But who do you think will come out on top on Day 1?
WTA Charleston Day 1 Predictions
Eva Lys vs Katie Volynets
Head-to-head: Lys 1-0 Volynets
After having her start to 2026 heavily disrupted by injuries, Eva Lys will be determined to get back on track as the clay swing begins. Katie Volynets is more suited to hard courts than high-bouncing clay, and while her high-percentage tennis can make this physically demanding, Lys’ more well-rounded baseline game should help her edge a hard-fought win.
Prediction: Lys in 3
Viktoriya Tomova vs Jennifer Brady
Head-to-head: Tomova 1-0 Brady
Viktoriya Tomova and Jennifer Brady meet in a matchup between a qualifier and a wild card, with Tomova bringing aggressive baseline intensity against Brady’s serve-plus-one forehand pattern. On the green clay, patience and point construction will be key. With Brady still adjusting to life back on tour after a long absence, Tomova should have the edge through match sharpness.
Prediction: Tomova in 2
Sloane Stephens vs Renata Zarazua
Head-to-head: Zarazua 2-0 Stephens
There is no doubt that Sloane Stephens is the more talented and accomplished player here, having famously won the US Open in 2017. However, she is no longer at that level and has struggled for match wins, with just one main-draw victory since the start of 2025. Against the tenacious Renata Zarazua, who relies on court coverage and grinding rallies, this feels like another match where Stephens could fade physically.
Prediction: Zarazua in 3
