WHAT A START FOR THE CANADIAN. Bianca Andreescu powers through to take the first set 6-1 over Emma Navarro! #RolandGarros
Bianca Andreescu is preparing for her comeback to the courts after 10 months at the upcoming French Open. The former US Open champion last played in August 2023 at the WTA 1000 Canadian Open, where she was defeated by Camila Giorgi in the first round (3-6, 2-6).
Subsequently, she withdrew from the Cincinnati Open and US Open due to a stress fracture in her back, bringing her season to an early end. Andreescu also faced issues with her wrist and ankle during 2023.
In early 2024, Andreescu mentioned that she hoped to return during the Sunshine Double, although she wasn't certain if she would be 100% recovered. Ultimately, the Canadian did not compete in California but is aiming for her comeback during the clay swing at the French Open, where she is guaranteed entry with her protected ranking, having been off the Tour for more than 6 months due to injury.
The 23-year-old has competed in the main draw of the French Open four times, with her best result being reaching the third round in 2023, where she defeated Victoria Azarenka and Emma Navarro but was eliminated by Lesia Tsurenko. At the moment, Andreescu is not entered in any tournaments leading up to the French Open, so she will either need a wildcard to participate in a preparation tournament or simply make her return on the courts of Roland Garros.
Andreescu is not the only surprise on the entry list for the Roland Garros Women’s singles, as several players will use their protected ranking to enter the draw, including Angelique Kerber, Naomi Osaka, Irina Camelia Begu, Amanda Anisimova, Alison Van Uytvank, and Julia Grabher. Additionally, the absence of the 2023 runner-up Karolina Muchova stands out, as she has been sidelined since the last US Open due to a wrist injury.
WHAT A START FOR THE CANADIAN. Bianca Andreescu powers through to take the first set 6-1 over Emma Navarro! #RolandGarros