Genie Bouchard in action
Canadian tennis star Genie Bouchard gave fans in Montreal a nostalgic victory Monday, beating Colombia’s Emiliana Arango 6-4, 2-6, 6-2 in the opening round of the National Bank Open. The match marked a major milestone — her first WTA Tour win since 2023 and the 300th career victory for the former Wimbledon finalist.
A Hometown Comeback Before Retirement
Bouchard, once ranked No. 5 in the world, had recently announced that this tournament in her hometown would be her farewell appearance on the WTA Tour. Now 31 and focused more on pickleball, Bouchard had played only one professional match this year before receiving a wild card into the tournament.
But in front of a passionate home crowd, she showed flashes of the powerful and fearless play that once took her to three Grand Slam semifinals in 2014. The former teen sensation used the energy of the Montreal crowd to push through a tough three-set battle.
How Bouchard Sealed the Match
After splitting the first two sets, Bouchard took control in the decider. She broke Arango twice — once with a strong forehand and again after Arango missed a volley — to take a commanding 5-1 lead.
Although Arango briefly clawed one game back, Bouchard held her nerve. With the crowd behind her, she quickly went up 40-love and secured the win on her second match point as Arango sent a backhand wide.
Bouchard celebrated with a smile, waves, and kisses to the stands.
“I told my family that if I won, I would come out of retirement,” she joked from center court. “I felt like the old Genie out there.”
Raducanu Bounces Back After D.C. Loss
British player Emma Raducanu also looked sharp in her first match since a semifinal exit in Washington. The 2021 US Open champion defeated Romania’s Elena-Gabriela Ruse in straight sets, 6-2, 6-4.
Despite a quick turnaround, Raducanu looked focused and composed, dictating play with solid groundstrokes and sharp court coverage. The 21-year-old is aiming to rebuild momentum after a challenging year with injuries and early exits.
Osaka Makes Winning Return Without Mouratoglou
In another highlight of the opening round, Naomi Osaka returned to action after her decision to part ways with renowned coach Patrick Mouratoglou. The four-time Grand Slam champion looked confident and in control as she defeated Canadian wildcard Ariana Arseneault 6-4, 6-2.
Osaka’s serve was dominant, and she looked more relaxed without a coach in her box. The win marked an important step in her comeback journey after maternity leave and several coaching changes in recent seasons.
What’s Next in Montreal
Bouchard now faces a much tougher challenge against 17th-seeded Belinda Bencic, a former Olympic gold medallist and consistent top-20 performer. While Bouchard’s future on tour remains uncertain, her passion and connection with Canadian fans remain strong.
Raducanu and Osaka will also face higher-ranked opponents in the coming rounds, and both will look to build on their momentum in what’s shaping up to be a star-studded and emotionally charged tournament in Montreal.
From surprise returns to solid performances, the National Bank Open has already delivered gripping tennis — and the action has just begun.
