"I used to hate clay, now I really love clay" - Kenin ahead of Volvo Car Open Charleston

The last time Sofia Kenin played on clay was at the French Open and albeit Charleston has a different type of clay, Kenin is looking forward to it.

She is set to make her 4th appearance at the Volvo Car Open in Charleston looking for her 2nd main draw win. It has not been a successful time for Kenin in Charleston so far in her career but her newfound love for clay will certainly change that. Speaking on clay courts in general she said:

"Before I used to hate clay, in juniors. And then had a good run the year before last year against Serena and I got to the fourth round of Roland Garros. So, of course, from that moment I was like, I really love clay."

And her play on clay has showcased just that. A solid run at the French Open in 2019 before a final appearance in 2020. Even so, she still has her off days on clay like the one in Rome last year where she endured a double bael:

"Then, first tournament back in Rome last year had a bagel. I was obviously a little bit disappointed, but then I knew that it was going to somehow click. And then obviously after last year, Roland Garros is one of my favorite surfaces."

The Charleston clay is different from the red clay of Paris but for Kenin it will present an opportunity to experience some clay before she gets to play on red clay n preparation for the French Open.

Kenin also reiterated her fondness for Charleston saying that it is always nice to come back here as it is an event close to her heart. Kenin last played at the Miami Open where she lost to Ons Jabeur in three sets.