Venus Falls In Rainy Toronto; Serena, Bouchard Open Summer Hardcourt Campaigns Today
The matchup of two of the biggest servers in the women’s game turned out to be a dud as 2014 finalist Venus Williams was crushed last night by Sabine Lisicki 6-0, 6-3 in the first round of the WTA premier event in Toronto.
“It’s always tough after a rain delay like that. You don’t know if you’re ever going to get on the court,” Lisicki said. “It was also such a tough match-up against Venus – it’s always a pleasure to play her because you know you have to play well to beat her, so I’m happy with my performance today.”
Venus, who is now ranked No. 22 after her final points from last year rolled off Monday, turned 35 this past June.
“I really had an off day,” Venus said. “It was definitely a long wait and tough to not warm up. My opponent and I were under the same conditions, and she played really well.”
The day was marred by 10 hours of rain delays which forced the postponement for all but two of the singles matches.
The only other completed singles match was Flavia Pennetta’s 6-4, 6-1 win over Canadian wildcard Gabriela Dabrowski.
The win moves the Italian into a second round meeting with World No. 1 Serena Williams today.
“It’s going to be nice because I’ll play one of the best players ever,” Pennetta said. “But it’s good because she’s the hardest test and I’ll see where my game is.”
Troubled Canadian star Eugenie Bouchard is also in action today along with Washington winner Sloane Stephens and former No. 1s Victoria Azarenka and Jelena Jankovic. Bouchard, who has been hampered by an ab injury, will face Belinda Bencic.
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