Andreescu fights past Kasatkina to set up Cornet clash in Toronto

Bianca Andreescu enjoyed a hero's welcome as she took to the court at the National Bank Open (Rogers Cup) in Toronto on Tuesday night, overcoming an in-form Daria Kasatkina to reach the second round.

The former World No.4 ousted last week's San Jose champion in straight sets, scoring a well-earned 7-6(4) 6-4 victory. After her impressive run to the San Jose title, Kasatkina was unable to keep the momentum going as she fell to the consistent play of the Canadian.

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It was a case of who could hold serve in the first set, as both ladies exchanged breaks on four occasions before a tiebreak finally ensued. Kasatkina was troubled by double faults, hitting five in the first set. Her lapse in concentration was enough for Andreescu to claim the first set.

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The 2019 US Open winner was more aggressive in the second set, as both ladies again exchanged breaks on multiple occasions. However, it was Andreescu who was able to find some sort of rhythm towards the end, allowing her to close out the match after almost two and a half hours.

With the crowd firmly behind her, Andreescu will face French veteran Alize Cornet in the second round.