It’s just the latest setback for the 23-year-old amid an up-and-down season. Stearns claimed her biggest win to date over No. 8 Zheng Qinwen in Dubai, having previously been 0-10 against Top 10 players. But in between a struggle with gastrointestinal illness and a disappointing North American hardcourt swing—she won just one match in Austin, Indian Wells and Miami—Stearns is still seeking her first quarterfinal of the season.
Seeded No. 16 in Charleston, Stearns bowed out to Ajla Tomljanovic 6-4 6-1 in her opening match and reached the semifinals in doubles with Diana Shnaider before Hill announced the end of their partnership.
Hill, a former Pepperdine University player who previously coached Maria Sakkari, concluded his effusive message wishing Stearns “nothing but the best” on Instagram.
“Thank you, Peyton, for the hard work, trust, and all the memories,” Hill wrote. “You’re not just an amazing player, but a truly wonderful person whom I’m lucky to call a friend.
“Wishing you nothing but the best moving forward. A great future awaits you!”
