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Jessica Pegula's Title Defense Vaults Her Back into Contention

Jessica Pegula’s Title Defense Vaults Her Back into Contention

By August 14, 2024 0

Jessica Pegula’s 2023 season has been a rollercoaster ride, marked by early exits and injuries. However, her recent title defense at the National Bank Open in Toronto has reignited her hopes for a strong finish to the year.

Pegula’s struggles began early in the season, with disappointing performances at several tournaments. Injuries forced her to withdraw from Indian Wells, Miami, and Roland Garros, further derailing her momentum.

Despite these setbacks, Pegula showed signs of improvement on grass, winning her first title in eight months at the ecotrans Ladies Open. However, she entered the US Open swing with low expectations after a busy schedule that included the Summer Olympic Games in Paris.

To her surprise, Pegula hit the ground running in Toronto, reaching her second straight final without dropping a set. She became the first woman since Martina Hingis in 2000 to win both the Montréal and Toronto tournaments.

“It was definitely a tough week mentally,” Pegula said of her Olympic exits. “But to be able to come back the next week and just focus on competing almost helped me. I didn’t have time to think about how I was really feeling.”

Pegula’s victory in Toronto was an emotional release for her. “I was able to defend a title I’ve always done well at, in a place that’s somewhat close to home,” she said. “It was nice to go through that whole week, play some good tennis when I needed to, and come out on top.”

Now seeded No. 6 in Cincinnati, Pegula faces a tough opening test against either Karolina Muchova or Dayana Yastremska. Despite the demanding schedule, she is determined to keep pushing until the off-season.

“I missed a lot of the beginning of the year, so I feel mentally pretty good where some other people might feel more run down,” Pegula said. “I’m mentally prepared to grind out the end of the year more than I would be the last few years.”

With her form and fitness on the rise, it remains to be seen how much better Jessica Pegula’s year can get.

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Taylor Townsend's Candid Take on Tennis Travel Struggles

Taylor Townsend’s Candid Take on Tennis Travel Struggles

By August 12, 2024 0

Taylor Townsend’s remarkable run to the quarterfinals of the National Bank Open in Toronto as a lucky loser has been overshadowed by her candid revelation of the arduous travel challenges faced by tennis players.

After losing to fellow American Navarro on Saturday, Townsend faced a daunting task: reaching Mason, Ohio’s Lindner Family Tennis Center in less than 24 hours for her first-round qualifying match at 5 p.m. on Sunday. The quick turnaround and exorbitant flight costs left her exasperated.

“I am so overwhelmed. This is the sh– that people don’t see,” Townsend posted on Instagram.

With flights costing $1,400 per person, Townsend and her team opted to rent a car and drive the nearly 500 miles between Toronto and Cincinnati. They embarked on their overnight journey at 9 p.m. Saturday, arriving at 5 a.m. after Townsend slept in the car.

Despite the grueling travel, Townsend’s determination remained unwavering. Seeded No. 12 in qualifying, she secured a 6-3, 6-4 victory over Chloe Paquet and will face Katie Volynets on Monday for a spot in the main draw.

“Powered through the day and got the W,” Townsend posted after the match.

Townsend’s resilience and honesty have resonated with fans and tennis experts alike. On Tennis Channel Live, Paul Annacone praised her effort, saying, “That’s a heck of an effort. Welcome to the world of tennis … that’s how we live.”

Townsend’s experience highlights the often-overlooked challenges faced by tennis players, particularly those outside the top ranks. The high costs of travel and the relentless schedule can take a toll on their physical and mental well-being.

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Pegula Poised to Defend National Bank Open Title in Toronto

Pegula Poised to Defend National Bank Open Title in Toronto

By August 12, 2024 0

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.

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WTA Stars Serve Up Style at National Bank Open

WTA Stars Serve Up Style at National Bank Open

By August 11, 2024 0

Tennis Stars Showcase Streetwear Style at National Bank Open

Inspired by the pre-game fashion displays in the NBA and WNBA, the WTA Tour has introduced a behind-the-scenes photo series showcasing the off-court streetwear looks of its top stars. The initiative debuted at the National Bank Open in Toronto, highlighting the intersection of athletics and lifestyle.

Bianca Andreescu, the 2019 US Open champion, expressed her enthusiasm for the concept, stating that it allows players to showcase their personalities beyond the court. Coco Gauff, known for her custom New Balance kits, emphasized the potential for this trend to grow the sport by appealing to fans who appreciate both fashion and sports.

Among the players who participated in the photo series were Aryna Sabalenka, Naomi Osaka, and Ons Jabeur. Jabeur highlighted her partnership with Kayanee, a Saudi-owned fitness and lifestyle brand. Marta Kostyuk, Wilson’s on-court ambassador, and Leylah Fernandez, lululemon’s chief ambassador, also joined in.

Anastasia Potapova and Alycia Parks added a touch of whimsy by posing with their furry companions. As the tour approaches the US Open, one of the world’s fashion capitals, it is expected that more stylish serves will be on display.

The WTA’s embrace of streetwear fashion reflects a growing trend in sports, where athletes are increasingly expressing their individuality through their off-court attire. This initiative not only enhances the fan experience but also aligns with the broader cultural shift towards embracing personal style and self-expression.

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Anisimova Stuns Sabalenka, Reaches First WTA 1000 Semifinal

Anisimova Stuns Sabalenka, Reaches First WTA 1000 Semifinal

By August 11, 2024 0

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.

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Shnaider Stuns Gauff, Reaches Toronto Quarterfinals

Shnaider Stuns Gauff, Reaches Toronto Quarterfinals

By August 10, 2024 0

Diana Shnaider’s meteoric rise in the tennis world continues to astound, as the 20-year-old Russian left-hander has now claimed a Top 10 scalp in the form of Coco Gauff. In a stunning display of poise and precision, Shnaider toppled the No. 1 seed 6-4, 6-1 in the third round of the National Bank Open in Toronto, marking her first quarterfinal appearance at a WTA 1000 event.

Shnaider, a former three-time junior doubles Grand Slam champion, has made rapid strides in her professional career since establishing a Top 100 ranking while playing college tennis at North Carolina State University. This year alone, she has captured three singles titles, including a 500-level triumph on grass in Berlin, and has ascended to the Top 50 and Top 40 in the rankings.

Her victory over Gauff, who had previously been undefeated against players younger than her, was a testament to Shnaider’s growing maturity and tactical acumen. Windy conditions played a significant role in Gauff’s downfall, as she committed a staggering 42 unforced errors, nearly double that of Shnaider.

Shnaider, known for her powerful groundstrokes, maintained a consistent and deep hitting strategy, forcing Gauff into numerous mistimed shots and serves. Gauff’s struggles were evident in her eight double faults and three breaks of serve, while Shnaider remained unyielding on her own serve, facing only one break point.

“I think she kind of knew to just stay steady because I was giving her a lot of errors,” Gauff acknowledged after the match. “She normally hits big when I see her play, but I think today I was just giving her too many errors, so it wasn’t necessary for her to do that.”

Shnaider’s victory sets up a tantalizing semifinal clash with No. 6 seed Liudmila Samsonova, who defeated Elise Mertens in straight sets. Samsonova, a finalist in Toronto last year, will pose a formidable challenge for Shnaider, but the Russian has proven time and again that she is capable of rising to the occasion.

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American Women Dominate Toronto Open, Reach Quarterfinals

American Women Dominate Toronto Open, Reach Quarterfinals

By August 10, 2024 0

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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Medvedev Stumbles in Canada, Davidovich Fokina Upsets Former US Open Champ

Medvedev Stumbles in Canada, Davidovich Fokina Upsets Former US Open Champ

By August 9, 2024 0

Daniil Medvedev’s US Open preparations suffered a setback as he crashed out in the opening round of the National Bank Open in Canada. The former US Open champion, seeded third, fell to 42nd-ranked Alejandro Davidovich Fokina 6-4, 1-6, 6-2.

Davidovich Fokina, who had never beaten Medvedev before, entered the match with a 0-4 record against the Russian. However, he had defeated Medvedev’s doubles partner, Roman Safiullin, in Montreal.

The Spaniard, who missed Wimbledon due to a back injury, has been in impressive form this summer, reaching the quarterfinals in Atlanta and the round of 16 in Washington, D.C.

Medvedev’s defeat was part of a surprising trend in the tournament, with all four seeds in Davidovich Fokina’s quarter of the draw being eliminated in the round of 32. Stefanos Tsitsipas, Ugo Humbert, and Karen Khachanov also suffered early exits.

Davidovich Fokina will now face Matteo Arnaldi in the second round, with a potential semifinal berth on the line.

Medvedev, meanwhile, will continue playing in doubles with Safiullin. The pair advanced to the quarterfinals after winning a 10-point match tiebreaker. Medvedev will then turn his attention to the next Masters 1000 tournament in Cincinnati.

Another prominent player, Tommy Paul, also suffered a first-round defeat, losing to Brandon Nakashima 6-2, 6-7 (5), 6-1.

However, top seeds Jannik Sinner, Alexander Zverev, Andrey Rublev, and Grigor Dimitrov all advanced in straight sets. Sinner, who withdrew from the Olympic Games due to tonsillitis, defeated Borna Coric 6-2, 6-4.

In the women’s draw in Toronto, top seed Coco Gauff defeated Yafan Wang 6-4, 6-4. The American was joined in victory by compatriots Emma Navarro, Taylor Townsend, and Peyton Stearns.

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Dimitrov's Return Uncertain as Hijikata Eyes Set Win in Montreal

Dimitrov’s Return Uncertain as Hijikata Eyes Set Win in Montreal

By August 8, 2024 0

Grigor Dimitrov, the Bulgarian tennis star, is set to make his singles return at the National Bank Open in Montreal after recovering from an abductor tear sustained at Wimbledon. While Dimitrov has a formidable record this season, his extended absence from competition raises questions about his immediate form.

Dimitrov’s impressive 32-12 record since the start of 2024 has earned him a high winning percentage of 72.7%, his best since 2014. Prior to his injury, he showcased exceptional serving and baseline dominance. However, his month-long layoff and the transition from grass to hard courts may hinder his ability to regain his pre-injury level quickly.

On the other hand, Rinky Hijikata, Dimitrov’s second-round opponent, has been in impressive form. The Australian qualifier has won seven of his last 12 matches, including a dominant 6-1, 7-5 victory over Taro Daniel in the first round of the National Bank Open. Hijikata’s powerful ball-striking and ability to punish opponents make him a formidable threat.

The conditions in Montreal favor Hijikata’s style of play, and his experience of having already played three singles matches at the venue gives him an advantage over Dimitrov, who will be making his first singles appearance since his injury.

While Dimitrov holds a previous victory over Hijikata in Brisbane earlier this year, the Australian has improved significantly since then. Given Dimitrov’s lack of match fitness and Hijikata’s current form, it is worth considering the possibility of Hijikata winning a set in their upcoming encounter.

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Pegula Begins Quest for Montréal-Toronto Double with Pliskova Victory

Pegula Begins Quest for Montréal-Toronto Double with Pliskova Victory

By August 8, 2024 0

Jessica Pegula, the reigning champion of the National Bank Open, commenced her pursuit of a historic Montréal-Toronto double on Wednesday night with a convincing 7-5, 6-4 victory over former world No. 1 Karolina Pliskova.

Pegula, currently ranked No. 6, is aiming to emulate Martina Hingis’s feat of winning consecutive titles in Canada in 1999 and 2000. Her triumph in Montréal last year, where she upset Iga Swiatek, marked her second WTA 1000 title. However, her 2023 season has been marred by injuries and a coaching change, affecting her consistency.

Despite her recent challenges, Pegula displayed her resilience against Pliskova, who reached the finals in 2021. The American overcame an early break deficit and regained her own break advantage to secure the first set.

Pliskova, ranked No. 45, posed a formidable challenge in the second set, pushing Pegula to the limit as she served for the match. However, Pegula’s determination prevailed as she saved two break chances in the final game to seal the victory in straight sets.

Pegula’s next opponent will be the winner of the second-round clash between Ashlyn Krueger and Leylah Fernandez, who defeated Nao Hibino in the opening match of Wednesday’s night session.

Pegula’s victory sets the stage for a potential quarterfinal showdown with Swiatek, who received a first-round bye. The American will be eager to avenge her loss to the Polish star in the semifinals of the Australian Open earlier this year.

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