Andreescu struggles in win versus Cornet, advances to round of 16 in Toronto

Canadian tennis star Bianca Andreescu was forced to work hard in her match against Alize Cornet at the National Bank Open (Rogers Cup), but dug deep to escape with the victory and advance to the round of 16.

The former World No.4 overcame a second set surge by the French veteran to prevail in a 6-3 4-6 6-3 victory, relying on all her big match experience to keep her opponent at bay.

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Both ladies were not particularly impressive on serve, with each competitor exchanging breaks multiple times throughout the match. However, it was Cornet who succumbed to numerous double faults, hitting a total of eight. This lapse in play allowed Andreescu to take advantage of her opponent's weaker second serve, which resulted in the 2019 champion obtaining the vital break in the final set.

Although Andreescu prevailed, it was not without worry as the former US Open champion was severely tested by the crafty veteran. Nonetheless, the partisan crowd encouraged the hometown girl to dig deep, resulting in the 22-year old emerging victorious after almost two and a half hours.

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Awaiting Andreescu in the next round is Chinese star Qinwen Zheng, who advanced after fifth seed Ons Jabeur retired during their match.