‘Breaking Barriers and a Lot of Stereotypes’ – Bianca Andreescu Praises WTA Players for Supporting Each Other Despite Heavy Competition

Yesterday, 9th March, the 2019 US Open champion Bianca Andreescu expressed herself on the incredible support of players for each other in tennis. The 21-year-old focused on the unity of the players despite being indulged in head-to-head competition against each other.

Bianca had a not-so-pleasant 2021. Coming back from a knee injury, the Canadian was struggling to get back her form when she faced another injury, this time in the ankle. Recovering from the injury, Bianca further tested positive for COVID-19. What’s worse? Her family faced a tough time with her grandmother being in the ICU for several weeks due to a COVID-19 infection. A series of unpleasant incidents not only affected Bianca physically but also mentally. She last played at the 2021 Indian Wells, after which she has been out of the tour citing mental health reasons.

Celebrating women’s day, Bianca was yesterday featured in a video by the Canadian Sports channel Sportsnet. In the video, the Canadian expressed her views on breaking barriers in tennis, the women who inspire her, and the importance of being an inspiration to budding athletes. However, what caught the most attention was her explanation of how women players support each other.

 

Bianca on women support in the game

In the video, it was when Bianca was speaking about the two players who have inspired her the most, that the host Donovan Bennett asked her how women players support each other even when competing on the biggest of the platforms.

Taking the question with utmost grace, a highly confident started with bringing up the point of breaking barriers and stereotypes. She said, “I think that’s breaking barriers and a lot of stereotypes I feel, and having those moments shows a lot for people that are watching.” 

“It shows that we can all be connected,” she further added.

Stating the importance of giving support while playing on big platforms, she focused on creating bonds with fellow players and also the viewers. “Even if we’re competing against each other, we can all support each other because I feel like that’s how you can create a stronger bond with your sport and with everybody that’s watching,” she said.

Bianca Andreescu in 2019

2019 is arguably considered the best year for Bianca Andreescu. The former World No. 4 has 3 titles to her name, all of which came in 2019. Her first tile came at the 2019 BNP Paribas Open (Indian Wells). Entering the tournament as a wildcard, Bianca sailed through the initial rounds. In the semifinals she faced 6th seeded Ukrainian Elina Svitolina, defeating her in three sets. Her semifinal win set up a final clash with German Angelique Kerber. Eyeing the title, both the players indulged in some high-quality tennis. However, it was Bianca who won the title.

The second title came at the 2019 Rogers Cup. Unlike Indian Wells, Bianca fthis time faced tough completitions, escaping some close call matches to reach the semifinals. In the semifinals, she beat American Sofia Kenin, to set up a final clash with Serena WIlliams. In the finals, the two started the match on a high note. However, trailing 1-3 in the first set, Serena was forced to retire after suffering a back injury, giving Bianca her second career title.

Also read- Bianca Andreescu Reveals How Mother’s Advice on Power of Visualization Helped Her to Fulfill US Open Dream

Her third title came at the 2019 US Open. Entering the tournament as the 15th seed, Andreescu reached the semifinals, dropping just two sets. In the semifinals she beat 13th seeded Swiss player Belinda Bencic; set up a rematch of the Rogers Cup against Serena Williams. However, not willing to go down after reaching this point. The Canadian showed no mercy as she went on to beat the 6-time US Open champion in straight sets.

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