Rogers Cup: Superstars Nadal, Serena book finale berths
What's the story
Rafael Nadal will be aiming to defend his Rogers Cup title after reaching the final of the 2019 event. The Spaniard booked a finale berth without playing a shot after Gael Monfils withdrew from their semi-final with an ankle injury. Meanwhile, in the women's section in Toronto, Serena Williams has reached the finale. She is vying for her maiden title in 2019.
Monfils injury
Monfils suffers ankle injury in quarter-final
Nadal goes into the final as the favorite. He will be up against Russia's Daniil Medvedev. It's a shame that he couldn't get to face Monfils, who worked tirelessly in the quarter-finals victory Roberto Bautista Agut. Monfils won the rain-delayed quarter-final 6-4, 3-6, 7-6 (7-2) and then had to withdraw from the Montreal tournament owing to an ankle injury.
Serena Rogers Cup
Serena aiming to win first title since 2018
Meanwhile, Serena worked on her sluggish start to overcome the promising Bouzkova. Serena won the tie 1-6, 6-3, 6-3. The 23-time Grand Slam champion will look to make her presence felt in the final with a trophy on offer. Serena is looking to win her first title since returning to tennis in 2018 after the birth of her daughter.
Quote
It's kind of been contagious: Serena on Andreescu
"I've never faced her, but I've kind of become a fan with everyone rooting and cheering so hard. It's kind of been contagious, the 'Bianca Effect," said Serena on her next opponent.
Andreescu
Andreescu beats Sofia to set up Serena clash
On the other hand, Andreescu surged past American Sofia Kenin 6-4, 7-6 (7-5) in the other semi-final. She is now the first Canadian woman to reach the final of the tournament since 1969. "I just felt like crying after because I'm just so happy," she said. Andreescu won her maiden WTA title at Indian Wells in March 2019.
Quote
Andreescu is ecstatic after returning from a shoulder injury
After the Indian Wells victory, a shoulder injury constantly bothered Andreescu. "I've been through so much the last two months. All I can say is that I'm so happy to be back. My shoulder's good. I'm in the finals of the Rogers Cup," she said.