The top eight seeds forged their way into the Round of 16 at the Credit One Charleston Open on Thursday, but as we all knew was bound to happen, the upsets had to be lurking. In what had been a tournament devoid of upsets all week long, the chaos became unleashed in the afternoon session. 4 seed Emma Navarro needed 3 sets to overcome American compatriot Ashlyn Krueger, 4-6, 6-4, 6-2. Top seed Jessica Pegula routined Ajla Tomljanovic, 6-3, 6-2. Danielle Collins held off Jelena Ostapenko on Althea Gibson stadium, 7-5, 6-3 and 3 seed Qinwen Zheng folowed on the same court two hours later with a 3-6, 6-3, 6-3 comeback to head to the quarterfinals.
Then, Anna Kalinskaya became the giant slayer of the tournament thus far, shocking 2 seed Madison Keys and her fans with a 6-2, 6-4 drubbing in which Keys looked lackluster throughout. Unseeded Sofia Kenin followed that match with a nightcap upset of Daria Kasatkina, 6-3, 7-6(7).
In a matter of three hours, two of the most beloved and promoted players of the event saw their chances of hoisting the hardware on Sunday reduced to ashes. Kasatkina had an emotional week as she began playing under the Australian flag; Keys was treated as royalty at every practice session and match with the recent Australian Open singles title under her belt.
Now, they’re reduced to being spectators at the “real” final, the “alternate universe” final today. No, let’s call it the Shirt Showdown. Only two players likenesses graced the player t-shirts for sale at the Credit One merchandise booth all week–defending champion Danielle Collins and World #4 Jess Pegula. They open up the proceedings at 11:00 am in what should be a fantastic match, albeit with Pegula holding a 5-0 decisive head-to head-between the two. But we all know what Danimal did here last year, and we will see if her good luck pooch Quincy can get her back in the Charleston semis again.
Another All-American thriller features Amanada Anisimova taking on hometown favorite Emma Navarro. At least two Americans will marquee in the semifinals and possibly three, if Sofia Kenin can continue her run in a match against the giant slayer Kalinskasya.
But for me, it’s all about the Shirt Showdown. I have a hunch about Collins getting a first tour victory over Pegula. Unfortunately, I have no data to back that up aside from a cute dog and the power of seven chickens owned by Collins who will be watching from home.
Finally, 3 seed Qinwen Zheng lurks quietly. I expect her to win today over Ekaterina Alexandrova and await the winner of the Shirt Showdown tomorrow. Watch out for her. She’s been in great form all week long.
—S. Fogleman
Tennis Atlantic 
Return Serve?