Sports
Bianca Andreescu Delivers Spectacular Shot at US Open
NEW YORK — Bianca Andreescu, the 2019 US Open champion, showcased her remarkable skills during a challenging first-round match against No. 5 seed Jasmine Paolini.
During the match, Andreescu executed a spinning reflex volley with incredible backspin, resulting in the ball bouncing back over the net and scoring a clean winner. This occurred while she was serving with a break advantage in the first set.
As Paolini’s short return drew Andreescu into the net, she responded with an aggressive forehand shot cross-court. However, Paolini lunged forward with a forehand pass that seemed poised to win the point. Yet, Andreescu was ready.
Anticipating Paolini’s drive down the line, Andreescu attempted a one-handed backhand stab that made perfect contact with the ball. As she spun a complete 360 degrees to regain her balance, the ball floated over the net, only to spin back towards Andreescu’s side before Paolini could react.
Andreescu’s expression of disbelief and laughter captured the moment effectively. The 24-year-old athlete placed her hands on her hips, laughing in astonishment at the unusual outcome of the shot.
Despite the intensity of the match, Paolini, who had expressed her admiration for the shot, smiled as she approached the baseline for the next point. This moment reflected the sportsmanship between two competitors.
Andreescu’s dazzling volley helped her secure a tight first set against Paolini. Nevertheless, the Italian opponent fought back, ultimately winning the match with a score of 6-7(5), 6-2, 6-4, marking her third consecutive victory over the Canadian.
Paolini has established herself as a formidable competitor against Andreescu, having eliminated her in the last three Grand Slam tournaments.