In a thrilling start at the US Open women’s singles qualifying, Canada’s Cadence Brace has secured a commendable victory.
The Oakville, Ontario native, who is gearing up for her second NCAA season at LSU, triumphed over experienced Japanese player Nao Hibino with a score of 2-6, 6-3, 6-3 on Tuesday in New York.
At just 20 years old, Brace holds the 223rd spot in the global rankings and was fortunate to land a qualifying-draw place just in time. Hibino, a former top-50 star, is currently ranked 180th.
To advance to the main draw starting Sunday, Brace will need to secure two more victories.
In contrast, Marina Stakusic from Mississauga, Ontario, faced a tough match, losing 6-3, 6-2 against Belgium’s Hanne Vandewinkel during the opening round of qualifying. Simultaneously, Liam Draxl from Newmarket, Ontario, fell to Kyrian Jacquet of France with a score of 7-5, 6-2 in the men’s qualifying first round.
Later on Tuesday, Carol Zhao from Richmond Hill, Ontario, was set to take the court.
In a positive note, Rebecca Marino from Vancouver claimed victory in her opening-round qualifier on Monday.
