Mount Pleasant Magazine Jan/Feb 2019

46 www.ReadMPM.com | www.BestOfMP.com | www.ILoveMountPleasant.com to take in the many sights and hit up some shopping spots – all while enjoying the Southern hospitality. Moran is pleased with the way the field is shaping up: “From Caroline Wozniacki, Sloane Stephens and Madison Keys to both of last year’s finalists, Julia Goerges and Kiki Bertens, the level of tennis will be fantastic.” The event has seen a steady pace of growth and continued support from the community and surrounding businesses over the last five years. “Our prize money goes up a minimum of 3 percent every year,” Moran said. We even had a chance to catch up with last year’s runner-up, Goerges, to get her views on playing at Daniel Island: “I had a great time at the Volvo Car Open in 2018. Every match at the tournament was a nice challenge. I was able to adapt my game to the new surface early in the clay court season. The tournament is run by a fantastic team, which makes our stay in Charleston always special. I like the venue, the city and I thank the fans for their great support in my matches.” Goerges kicked off her 2018 season with a win in Auckland, New Zealand. From there, she reached the finals in Charleston; the semifinals in St. Petersburg, Wimbledon and New Haven; and the quarterfinals in Doha, Birmingham and Moscow. Her success in Wimbledon marked the first time the 29-year-old German made a semifinal of a Grand Slam tournament. Goerges has previously played the Volvo Car Open five times, where she has posted a 9–5 record. “The decision to start the clay court season in Charleston was an easy one for me. The whole package of the tournament has convinced me this year to come back again to Charleston in 2019. … In addition to playing in the tournament, I love the restaurants and the friendly people in the city. So far, I haven’t made any activity plans apart from the tennis, but I am sure that I will have a good time again.” Madison Keys celebrates her win as she moves on to the 2018 Volvo Car Open semifinals. feature