The world number five from the United States dropped the opening set and fell 0-2 behind in the decider before mounting a determined comeback to secure victory on Charleston’s green clay.
Reflecting on the tough conditions, Pegula said, “All I just kept thinking was, like, welcome to the clay court season,” pointing to the breezy weather and tricky shadows that made play difficult.
She also praised her opponent’s style, describing Putintseva as “really tricky,” particularly on clay, where her mix of high balls, slices, and drop shots created persistent challenges.
Pegula appeared close to victory when serving for the match at 5-4 in the final set but was broken before regaining control and closing out the contest in the next game.
The American is now chasing her second title of the year, having already secured a win in Dubai earlier this season.
Meanwhile, second seed Ekaterina Alexandrova withdrew ahead of her second-round match due to injury sustained in Miami. She was replaced in the draw by Ekaterine Gorgodze.
