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Marina Stakusic of Canada triumphs in her National Bank Open debut as Rebecca Marino is eliminated

Marina Stakusic of Canada triumphs in her National Bank Open debut as Rebecca Marino is eliminated

August 7, 2024

TORONTO – Marina Stakusic has advanced to the second round of the National Bank Open.

The 19-year-old from Mississauga, Ont., came back to defeat Russia’s Erika Andreeva 6-7 (5), 6-1, 6-4 on Wednesday in the Canadian’s first main-draw appearance at her country’s national tournament.

Next up for Stakusic, who entered the week ranked 160th in the world, is Taylor Townsend. The 71st-ranked American lost in qualifying, but earned a spot in the women’s bracket as an injury replacement before first-round opponent and No. 16 seed Dayana Yastremska retired in the second set with Townsend up 6-3, 3-1 on Tuesday.

Vancouver’s Rebecca Marino lost her first-round match 6-3, 6-4 to Poland’s Magda Linette.

Leylah Fernandez of Laval, Que., was scheduled to play on Centre Court later Wednesday. The 21-year-old is the tournament’s No. 15 seed after the event saw a boatload of withdrawals last week, including world No. 1 Iga Swiatek.

In other notable early action at the US$3.2-million event, former world No. 1 Naomi Osaka of Japan topped No. 9 seed Ons Jabeur of Tunisia 6-3, 6-1.

In a thrilling match at the National Bank Open, Canadian tennis player Marina Stakusic made a triumphant debut by defeating her opponent Rebecca Marino. Stakusic, a rising star in the Canadian tennis scene, showed great skill and determination on the court, ultimately emerging victorious in her first appearance at the prestigious tournament.

Stakusic’s win is a significant achievement for the young player, who has been steadily climbing the ranks in the world of professional tennis. Her performance at the National Bank Open is sure to garner attention and praise from fans and fellow players alike.

On the other hand, Rebecca Marino, a seasoned player with a strong track record in the sport, was unfortunately eliminated from the tournament. Despite putting up a valiant effort, Marino was unable to overcome Stakusic’s impressive play and was ultimately defeated in a hard-fought match.

The outcome of this match serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of tennis and the fierce competition that exists at the highest levels of the sport. It also highlights the talent and potential of young players like Stakusic, who are making their mark on the tennis world and proving themselves as formidable competitors.

As Stakusic continues her journey at the National Bank Open, fans can look forward to seeing more exciting matches and impressive performances from this promising Canadian player. Her debut victory is just the beginning of what promises to be a bright future in the world of professional tennis.