Raducanu Wins Montreal Opener Advances US Open Seeding

Emma Raducanu secured a hard-fought victory over Elena-Gabriela Ruse in the first round of the National Bank Open in Montreal, winning 6-2, 6-4. Despite facing early challenges, including saving five break points in her opening service game and struggling with her serve under hot and humid conditions, Raducanu demonstrated resilience and composure throughout the match. After breaking Ruse to go 3-2, Raducanu won six consecutive games to take the first set and continued to battle through multiple breaks in the second set before closing out the match. This win marks her sixth victory in eight matches, showcasing her strong form following a semi-final appearance at the Citi Open. Raducanu expressed pride in overcoming the challenge of playing a close friend and praised her own performance in her first appearance at this tournament. She will next face 32nd seed Peyton Stearns in the second round, while compatriot Katie Boulter was eliminated in the first round.