The 2026 Credit One Charleston Open gets underway this week, marking the start of the tennis world's clay-court season.
The WTA 500 event runs from March 30th through April 5th. It features a 48-player singles draw on green clay, the only surface of its kind on tour. This year’s tournament additionally carries a $2.5 million prize pool, part of a push for pay equity at the 500 level.
"Women’s tennis is delivering at a very high level right now," said Charleston Open owner Ben Navarro. "Offering equal prize money is about respecting the players and the work they put in, and aligning the tournament with the value of the game.”
World No. 5 Jessica Pegula opens her campaign Tuesday, after the defending champion subsequently became the 10th US player to win the tournament in 2025.
"I'm glad that I've been able to be a part of this era of all these girls doing really well in the States," the 32-year-old said. "It's definitely motivated me to see them do well. It's an honor to be a part of this amazing group."
2022 champion Belinda Bencic and 2019 champion Madison Keys also headline the tournament's main draw.
This week's winner will earn 500 ranking points, as Pegula looks to build momentum ahead of next month's French Open.
How to Watch the 2026 Charleston Open Tennis Tournament
The Charleston Open continues through April 5th, with matches airing on live on The Tennis Channel.
