Zheng Qinwen Survives Anisimova Scare at US Open

Zheng Qinwen Survives Anisimova Scare at US Open

Zheng Qinwen, the reigning Olympic champion, narrowly escaped an upset at the 2024 US Open, overcoming a spirited challenge from Amanda Anisimova in a three-set thriller.

Anisimova, a former Roland Garros semifinalist, started the match on fire, racing to a 5-1 lead in the first set. However, Zheng, who stunned Iga Swiatek at the Olympics, fought back to break Anisimova twice and save three set points. Anisimova eventually clinched the set with a forehand winner.

In the second set, Zheng gained momentum, forcing Anisimova into errors. Despite a marathon seventh game, Anisimova held on and threatened to break in the following game. However, Zheng saved two set points and leveled the match with a strong first serve.

After a medical timeout for Anisimova, Zheng seized control in the final set, breaking Anisimova twice to open up a double-break lead. Anisimova reclaimed one break but Zheng’s slice backhand gave her a second break. Zheng served out the match with an ace, advancing to the second round in two hours and 20 minutes.

Zheng’s victory highlights her versatility on different surfaces, having reached the Australian Open final earlier this year. Anisimova, despite her impressive form in recent months, was unable to maintain her early dominance.

In the next round, Zheng will face Erika Andreeva, who defeated Yuan Yue in a second-set tiebreaker.

US Open 2024: Shelton, Zheng, Rune, Nakashima Headline Opening Day Clashes

US Open 2024: Shelton, Zheng, Rune, Nakashima Headline Opening Day Clashes

US Open 2024: Shelton, Zheng, Rune, and Nakashima Set for Opening Day Clashes

The 2024 US Open kicks off with a captivating slate of first-round matches, featuring intriguing matchups between rising stars and seasoned veterans.

Ben Shelton vs. Dominic Thiem

Last year’s second-round encounter between Shelton and Thiem was marred by the Austrian’s health issues. Now, they face off again, with Thiem’s career in its twilight. The American, buoyed by a strong summer, will be the favorite in front of the home crowd.

Zheng Qinwen vs. Amanda Anisimova

Two young powerhouses, Zheng and Anisimova, will clash in a battle of Olympic gold and WTA 1000 finalist. Both players possess exceptional power and will look to dictate the rallies. Zheng’s higher ranking and recent form give her a slight edge.

Holger Rune vs. Brandon Nakashima

Despite being two years younger, Rune has achieved more than Nakashima. However, the American has won both their previous encounters, including a dominant victory last fall. Nakashima’s calmness and pro-American crowd support could prove decisive in this highly anticipated clash.

Other Notable Matches

* Coco Gauff vs. Elena-Gabriela Ruse: The American teenager faces a tough test against the Romanian qualifier.
* Rafael Nadal vs. Rinky Hijikata: The 22-time Grand Slam champion begins his title defense against the Australian wildcard.
* Iga Swiatek vs. Jasmine Paolini: The world No. 1 opens her campaign against the Italian qualifier.

US Open Women's Draw Wide Open, Says Tracy Austin

US Open Women’s Draw Wide Open, Says Tracy Austin

US Open Women’s Draw: Tracy Austin Predicts an Open Field

As the US Open, the final Grand Slam of the year, approaches, tennis legend Tracy Austin believes the women’s draw is wide open for the taking.

“The women’s draw is unpredictable,” Austin said in a recent interview. “There are several players who have been playing well this summer and could make a deep run.”

One player Austin is keeping an eye on is Paula Badosa, the former world No. 2. “She’s playing so well right now,” Austin said. “I think she’s definitely in the mix.”

Another player to watch is Amanda Anisimova, who has worked her way back into the Top 40 after taking time off the tour. “She’s beaten some top players recently,” Austin said. “She’s got a big serve and powerful groundstrokes. She’s someone no one wants to see in their draw.”

American Danielle Collins, who has never been past the fourth round at Flushing Meadows, is also a contender, according to Austin. “She’s the type of player who can use this moment,” Austin said. “She’s riding on emotion right now. If she can get a couple of matches under her belt and get the crowd behind her, she could go deep.”

When it comes to overall predictions, Austin has her eyes on Aryna Sabalenka. “She’s a big hitter with a lot of power,” Austin said. “She’s capable of winning a Grand Slam.”

Jessica Pegula Defends Toronto Masters Title, Makes History

Jessica Pegula Defends Toronto Masters Title, Makes History

Jessica Pegula’s triumph at the WTA Toronto Masters marks a significant milestone in her career, solidifying her status as a formidable force in women’s tennis. The American star’s victory over Amanda Anisimova in an all-American final not only earned her a second consecutive title in Canada but also etched her name in the tournament’s history books.

Pegula’s journey to the championship was marked by resilience and determination. Despite dropping the second set to Anisimova, she rallied back with unwavering focus, dominating the final set to secure a 6-3, 2-6, 6-1 victory. Her triumph is a testament to her exceptional skills and unwavering belief in her abilities.

The victory in Toronto holds special significance for Pegula, who has a deep connection to the region. Her grandparents, one from Toronto and the other from Montreal, were present to witness her historic achievement. Pegula’s emotional reaction to her victory speaks volumes about the personal significance of this triumph.

Anisimova’s performance in Toronto was equally impressive, showcasing her remarkable talent and resilience. Despite being the lowest-ranked finalist in the tournament’s history, she fought valiantly, dispatching four top-20 opponents en route to the final. Her runner-up finish ensures her return to the top 50 in the world rankings, a testament to her hard work and dedication.

Pegula’s victory in Toronto is a culmination of her consistent performances throughout the season. She has captured two WTA titles this year, including the Berlin Open in June, and has consistently ranked among the top 10 players in the world. Her success is a reflection of her unwavering commitment to excellence and her ability to perform at the highest level.

Pegula Poised to Defend National Bank Open Title in Toronto

Pegula Poised to Defend National Bank Open Title in Toronto

Jessica Pegula, the reigning National Bank Open champion, is poised to defend her title on Monday, August 12, in Toronto. Despite the venue change from Montreal to Toronto, Pegula has maintained her impressive form, reaching the final without dropping a set. Her most recent victory was a dominant 6-4, 6-3 triumph over Diana Shnaider.

Pegula’s chances of adding to her trophy collection are bolstered by several factors. Firstly, her opponent, Amanda Anisimova, required a medical timeout during her semifinal win over Emma Navarro. While Anisimova ultimately prevailed, her physical condition remains a concern, especially considering her history of injuries. In contrast, Pegula has displayed remarkable stamina throughout the tournament.

Furthermore, Pegula holds a 2-0 head-to-head record against Anisimova. While Anisimova has improved her game since their previous encounters, Pegula’s ability to extend rallies and redirect pace poses a significant challenge for her opponent. Anisimova’s quick-strike tennis may be effective in short bursts, but Pegula’s superior rally tolerance will give her an edge in longer exchanges.

Additionally, this will be Anisimova’s first final since January 2022 and her biggest final to date. The pressure of the occasion could potentially affect her performance, while Pegula’s experience in high-stakes matches will serve her well.

Pegula’s flat strokes and aggressive baseline play make her a formidable opponent on hard courts. Her ability to control the pace and dictate the rallies will likely prove too much for Anisimova.

Based on these factors, Pegula is the clear favorite to win the National Bank Open for the second consecutive year. Her consistency, physical advantage, and experience give her a significant edge over Anisimova.

Anisimova Stuns Sabalenka, Reaches First WTA 1000 Semifinal

Anisimova Stuns Sabalenka, Reaches First WTA 1000 Semifinal

Amanda Anisimova’s remarkable resurgence continued on Saturday as she stunned world No. 2 Aryna Sabalenka 6-4, 6-2 in the quarterfinals of the National Bank Open in Toronto. The victory marks Anisimova’s first WTA 1000-level semifinal appearance and her first Top 10 win since 2022.

Anisimova, who took a break from the tour in 2023 to prioritize her mental health, displayed impressive resilience and determination throughout the match. She saved all five break points she faced in the first set and broke Sabalenka’s serve twice to take the set 6-4.

The second set was equally impressive for Anisimova. After losing her serve early, she responded with five consecutive game wins to seal the victory. Her aggressive play and consistent groundstrokes proved too much for Sabalenka, who was visibly frustrated throughout the match.

Anisimova’s victory is a testament to her hard work and dedication. She has now defeated Sabalenka five times in their seven career meetings, including their last encounter at the Australian Open earlier this year.

“I’m just really happy to be out here,” Anisimova said after the match. “I’ve had a lot of matches in the last couple of weeks, and it’s honestly been so nice just being able to play day after day.”

Anisimova’s performance in Toronto has significantly boosted her ranking. She entered the tournament ranked No. 132 but is projected to return to the Top 70 regardless of her result in the semifinals.

In the semifinals, Anisimova will face fellow American Emma Navarro, who also reached her first WTA 1000 semifinal with a victory over Taylor Townsend. An American is guaranteed to reach the final in Canada for the second consecutive year.

American Women Dominate Toronto Open, Reach Quarterfinals

American Women Dominate Toronto Open, Reach Quarterfinals

The US Open may still be weeks away, but the American women are already making their mark on the WTA circuit. At the WTA 1000 National Bank Open in Toronto, four US players have stormed into the quarterfinals, led by defending champion Jessica Pegula.

Pegula, the No. 3 seed, overcame a spirited challenge from fellow American Ashlyn Krueger, winning 6-4, 6-2. Despite windy conditions and a combined 70 unforced errors, Pegula’s experience and resilience proved too much for the 20-year-old qualifier.

Joining Pegula in the last eight are Amanda Anisimova, Emma Navarro, and Taylor Townsend. Anisimova, a former Roland Garros semifinalist, retired her opponent Anna Kalinskaya in the second set. Navarro, seeded No. 11, upset eighth-seeded Marta Kostyuk of Ukraine 7-5, 7-5.

Townsend, a last-minute replacement for Yulia Putintseva, made history by defeating former Roland Garros champion Jelena Ostapenko 6-2, 6-1. The left-hander, who won Wimbledon in doubles last month, had never reached a WTA quarterfinal in singles before this week.

With No. 1 seed Coco Gauff and former NCAA champion Peyton Stearns still to play, as many as six Americans could make up the eight quarterfinalists. This would be a testament to the depth and talent of the US women’s tennis.

Townsend, who broke into the Top 50 in doubles after her Wimbledon triumph, is now on the cusp of achieving the same feat in singles. A win against Navarro in the quarterfinals would guarantee her a place among the world’s top 50.

The American quartet’s success in Toronto is a positive sign for the US Open, which begins on August 29. With their confidence and momentum high, they will be among the favorites to challenge for the title in New York.

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