Playing the US Open for the first time since winning the title on Arthur Ashe in 2019, Bianca Andreescu survived Viktorija Golubic 7-5 4-6 7-5 in a first-round match that finished after midnight on Day 2.
The sixth-seeded Andreescu recovered from a break down in both the first and third set to prevail against Switzerland’s world No.45 in two hours and 48 minutes.
The 28-year-old Golubic is enjoying a career-best season with the 2021 Wimbledon quarterfinal appearance and a silver medal in women’s doubles at the Tokyo Olympics. Still, in New York she’s yet to clear the opening hurdle, as her record at the US Open is now 0-5.
The 21-year-old Andreescu triumphed on her US Open debut two years ago, but missed the tournament last season as the COVID-19 pandemic had compromised her ability to get match-ready. Now she’s extended her win-loss record at the Grand Slam to 8-0.
In the second round, Andreescu will face American Lauren Davis. As a result of Jelena Ostapenko’s withdrawal, the Canadian is ensured not to face a seeded opponent before the fourth round.
