Bianca Andreescu withdraws from pre-Australian Open event

The 2019 US Open champion Bianca Andreescu has withdrawn from the Grampians Trophy, saying she needs more time on the practice court ahead of the Australian Open.

The Canadian hasn't played since the WTA Finals 2019, experiencing a nasty knee injury and missing the entire last season. Thanks to her 2019 points, Bianca is still ranked inside the top-10, keeping an excellent position ahead of the return that should happen at the Australian Open next week.

Two years ago, the young Canadian conquered Indian Wells out of nowhere, becoming the youngest champion since Serena Williams and announcing her arrival. Following a shoulder injury from Miami, Andreescu returned with a flourish in Toronto, beating Serena in the title match to lift another massive trophy in front of the home fans and gain confidence ahead of the US Open. There, the Mississauga native scored another victory over the 23-time Major champion to win the title on debut and write history.

"Following the last two weeks in quarantine, it feels so good to finally be back on the court. After discussing it with my team, we have decided to focus on training this week ahead of the Australian Open and miss the Grampians. Many thanks to Tennis Australia and WTA for their hard work in providing us all these choices. See you all at the Australian Open," Bianca Andreescu said.