Canadian qualifier stuns with win over defending champion

The most surprising result from all the first rounds was undoubtedly Carson Branstine’s handsome victory. The Canadian qualifier eliminated defending champion Liudmila Samsonova: 6-4 5-7 6-1.

Branstina already played herself into the spotlight in the qualifiers, beating former Wimbledon quarterfinalist Jule Niemeier in two sets. The world number 231 also won her second qualifying match without losing a set.

The match against Samsonova had been suspended at 1-1 in sets on Tuesday evening, due to falling darkness. Upon resumption on the sunny Wednesday morning, Branstine was supreme, losing only one game.

Branstine will also be in action at the Libéma Open in the doubles. There she will form a pair with her well-known compatriot Bianca Andreescu.