Bianca Andreescu Makes a Strong Comeback with Victory in Rome

Andreescu Defeats Vekic in Three Sets for Notable Triumph

After enduring a six-month forced rest due to injury and appendicitis, Bianca Andreescu is back and better than ever. The Canadian tennis star secured her most significant victory since the 2020 French Open by defeating world no. 19 and 20th seed Donna Vekic, 6-1, 3-6, 6-2, in a thrilling match at the WTA 1000 event in Rome.

Andreescu’s impressive performance marks her first win against a top-20 player since her injury and illness relapse. The 24-year-old former world No. 4 from Ontario, Canada, has been ranked as low as 121 in the world due to her extended absence but is now set to challenge Wimbledon champion Elena Rybakina in the next round.

Two Canadian Surprises Almost Unfold in Rome

Bianca Andreescu wasn’t the only Canadian making waves on Friday. Victoria Mboko, an 18-year-old Ontario native, pushed fourth seed Coco Gauff to a three sets before ultimately falling 3-6, 6-2, 6-1.

Mboko, currently ranked 156th in the world, had previously given top-10 players a run for their money, notably 10th seed Paula Badosa at the WTA 1000 in Miami earlier this year. Her performance in Rome should propel her to a new career-high ranking of 137.

What’s Next for Andreescu?

Andreescu will face another stern test on Sunday as she takes on Wimbledon champion Elena Rybakina in the third round. Rybakina has a 3-0 head-to-head record against Andreescu, including a victory two weeks ago in Madrid.

Did You Know?

• Andreescu’s last victory against a top-20 player was against Victoria Azarenka in the 2020 French Open.
• Andreescu has beaten only one top-20 player—Beatriz Haddad Maia—since her return to competition last year. However, Maia retired from their match in Tokyo.
• Mboko has pushed top-10 players before, including a memorable match against Paula Badosa in Miami this year.

Pro Tips from Bianca Andreescu

“Believe in yourself and keep fighting no matter what happens on the court. That’s how you turn your dreams into reality.”

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