No Canadian players secured spots in the U.S. Open singles draws through the qualifying matches as Bianca Andreescu and Liam Draxl faced defeats in the final round on Friday in New York. Andreescu lost 2-6, 6-3, 6-4 to Tamara Zidansek of Slovenia despite firing seven aces in the match lasting two hours and 44 minutes. Draxl, from Newmarket, Ontario, also suffered a loss in a closely contested match against Australia’s Tristan Schoolkate.
The qualifying match between Andreescu and Zidansek had begun on Thursday but was interrupted due to rain with Andreescu leading 2-0 at the time. Both Andreescu and Draxl fought hard, with the latter losing in a tight 4-6, 7-5, 7-6 (7) battle against Schoolkate. Although both players managed to secure four breaks each, Schoolkate’s strategic play in the third set ultimately led to Draxl’s defeat.
Looking ahead, Montreal’s Felix Auger-Aliassime and Denis Shapovalov from Richmond Hill, Ontario, are set to compete in the men’s main draw starting Sunday. On the women’s side, Leylah Fernandez, the 2021 runner-up from Laval, Quebec, will also be in action.
In other news, Aryna Sabalenka and Jessica Pegula expressed appreciation for the record prize money allocated by the U.S. Open and the formation of a Grand Slam player advisory council. The U.S. Open announced a groundbreaking $108 million US prize purse for this year’s tournament, responding to calls from top players for increased prize money and a more significant role in decision-making processes impacting the sport.
World No. 1 Sabalenka, a vocal advocate for fair player compensation, highlighted the positive impact these changes could have on the relationship between players and tournament organizers. The initiatives are seen as a step towards addressing player concerns and enhancing collaboration within the tennis community.
Pegula, who has been actively involved in discussions between players and tennis governing bodies, emphasized the importance of unity between men’s and women’s tours in achieving substantial progress. She commended the players for their collective efforts in driving positive changes, including the establishment of a player advisory council and enhancements in prize money allocations. The ongoing push for player representation and welfare improvements reflects a growing desire for a more unified and inclusive tennis environment.