Bianca Andreescu, 18, makes history

 

Bianca Andreescu, 18, made history by winning Indian Wells in California.

The Romanian-Canadiana from the Toronto suburb of Mississauga is the first Canadian women to win a WTA event at this second-highest level. She’s also the youngest winner of Indian Wells since Serena Williams did it at age 17.

Andreescu has worked hard to add touch and drop shots to her powerful strokes. She’s overcome injuries and proven her mental toughness by beating Garbine Muguruza, Elina Svitolina and Angie Kerber to win the title.

There’s no guarantee in the WTA that early success means a lifelong career of championships, and many players have peaked at young ages. But Andreescu has an opportunity to shine for years. She’s already moved up to 24 in the world rankings, and she doesn’t have to defend many points the rest of the year.

It’s another great success story for Canadian tennis.

(words and images copyright Christopher Johnson Globalite Media, all rights reserved)