Sofia Kenin starts Wimbledon Qualifying with solid win, closes in on main draw

Former World No.4 Sofia Kenin is on her comeback trail as she took one step closer to qualifying for the 2023 Wimbledon Championships, notching a much-needed win in the qualifying rounds.

The 2020 Australian Open champion defeated Irina Falconi in the first round of qualifiers, securing a 6-3 6-2 win as she pushed to reach the main draw at SW19. Kenin has been struggling with form lately, although she did score an upset over World No.2 Aryna Sabalenka in Rome a few months ago.

Kenin struggled with injury for the bulk of the 2022 season, and is yet to fully regain her confidence. With this victory over Falconi, the American will look to boost her morale as she aims to compete at this summer's Wimbledon, after missing the event last year.