The 2014 Rogers Cup is underway as the first round of qualifying action kicked off on Saturday as an impressive crowd gathered at Uniprix Stadium.
Among the players who made their way into the next round of qualifying are Julia Görges, Kimiko Date Krumm, Kristina Mladenovic, Heather Watson & Tamira Paszek.
Two local Canadian players used their wildcards to the fullest extent as Carol Zhao & Stephanie Dubois managed to make the second round of their home tournament while fellow Canadians Heidi El Tabakh & Gloria Liang’s performances weren’t rewarded with a ticket into the next round.
While the qualifiers were busy fighting their way into the Rogers Cup main draw, several top players used the day to prepare for their start into the tournament’s next week.
Wimbledon champion Petra Kvitova used the chance to practice with Caroline Wozniacki, while Alize Cornet was practicing on the next court.
Victoria Azarenka has arrived in Montreal as well, following her early exit in Stanford, the former world #1 chose to practice on a court far away from the prying eyes of the fans. Genie Bouchard however did the exact opposite, practicing on Center Court, giving the Montreal crowd a chance to see their new national hero up close.
Qualifying at Montreal will continue tomorrow before the main draw gets underway on Monday, keep checking back for more coverage straight from the 2014 Rogers Cup.
Kimiko Date Krumm’s forehand – priceless photo! 🙂