Tennis Canada is set to push the boundaries of tennis as we know it, taking the game beyond the court and redefining the experience for fans, players and partners at the National Bank Open presented by Rogers (NBO) after launching the tournament’s new identity today. 
<a href="https://nationalbankopen.com/nbo-redefined" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Welcome to the Tennis Playground</a>. That’s the open invitation Canada is extending to the global tennis community. 
Far more than just a campaign, the Tennis Playground embodies a collective mindset and the start of a new era for the NBO, the third-oldest tennis tournament in the world, as we prepare to host the first-ever expanded 12-day, 96-player main draw ATP and WTA 1000 events in Toronto and Montreal. It is welcoming, playful and proud, reflecting a quintessentially Canadian personality that represents our country, tournaments and the people that make them so special. 
READ: <a href="https://nationalbankopen.com/news/read/2024/the-ultimate-ticket-guide-2025-nbo-redefined-experience" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Ultimate Ticket Guide to the 2025 NBO Redefined Experience</a>
“The Tennis Playground is the perfect new identity for the National Bank Open presented by Rogers. It will truly make us stand out, which is fitting as we operate under a unique model as a National Sports Organization hosting an internationally renowned tennis event. It gives us the license to focus on both the action taking place on the court and all the great work being done off it to grow our sport. It feels appropriate to launch this new identity to coincide with the NBO’s expansion, as fans prepare to enjoy more days, more matches, more sessions and to watch more players in action in 2025. It suits a tournament that belongs among the world’s best." 
-  Valérie Tétreault, Tournament Director, National Bank Open – Montreal 
- Karl Hale, Tournament Director, National Bank Open – Toronto 
<figure><iframe width="500" height="281" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/aWEC-0g6mQA" frameborder="0"></iframe></figure>
More will also be added to our off-court program, with several exciting new initiatives set to be confirmed in the coming weeks and months to create a holistic tennis experience for all. The NBO has always been a tournament unlike any other, with two cities and an entire nation providing the backdrop for a week-long celebration of the sport. Now, Canada’s premier tennis tournament is ready to take it to the next level as it joins an elite group of two-week events on the ATP and WTA Tours. 
"The launch of Tennis Playground marks a bold new era for the National Bank Open presented by Rogers, where world-class on-court action doesn’t stop at the sidelines — it comes to life everywhere. This year, we’re transforming the tournament into the ultimate summer experience, bringing the energy, excitement, and social spirit of the game beyond the court. Our fans can look forward to immersive experiences, live entertainment, and vibrant social spaces because the NBO is more than a tournament, it's the can't miss event of the summer. Ultimately, we want to create an environment where tennis is for all - all backgrounds, abilities and age groups.” 
- Nathalie Tremblay, Vice President, Marketing Strategy &amp; Customer Experience, Tennis Canada
<figure><iframe width="500" height="281" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/ikPrkpjAW38" frameborder="0"></iframe></figure>
Headlined by TV spots which feature marquee Canadians Leylah Annie Fernandez, Bianca Andreescu, Félix Auger-Aliassime, Denis Shapovalov and global superstars Iga Swiatek, Aryna Sabalenka, Carlos Alcaraz and 2023 NBO champion Jannik Sinner, the Tennis Playground will become the driving force behind Tennis Canada’s promotional efforts for the events. It will be visible across all the NBO’s owned digital and social media channels, as well as via our global broadcast partners starting today. 
"With this new positioning, our ambition for the coming years is to offer the same level of play and entertainment on court and outside of it, thus transforming the stadiums in Toronto and Montreal into true playgrounds where everyone is invited to play in their own way. Already recognized by players as an event where play and fun naturally come together, this new positioning also reflects the summer spirit of Canadians: making the most of every moment. This year marks the beginning of a story we want to write together, with players, fans, and even non-tennis fans — edition after edition." 
- David Allard, Director, Creative and Innovation, Sid Lee, who collaborated closely with Tennis Canada on developing the Tennis Playground
So, tennis fans far and wide, it’s our pleasure to say: Welcome to the Tennis Playground. Come Play! 
<h4>TICKETING INFORMATION </h4>
Fans can buy tickets for the National Bank Open in either city by following the links below: 
<a href="https://nationalbankopen.com/toronto/toronto-tickets-packages" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Toronto</a> (ATP Tour) | <a href="https://nationalbankopen.com/montreal/montreal-tickets-packages" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Montreal</a> (WTA Tour)

Tournament News

Welcome to the Tennis Playground: National Bank Open Launches New Identity to Define a New Era

With his first Masters 1000 title, the current No.62 will move up in the rankings to No.23. 
Not only was his play practically perfect, Popyrin made the most of the opportunities he got from Rublev, who was way out of his comfort zone. 
READ: <a href="https://nationalbankopen.com/news/read/2024/granollers-zeballos-reign-supreme-doubles" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Granollers and Zeballos reign supreme in doubles</a>
Rublev got things started by dropping the first seven points and giving Popyrin a 2-0 lead. What happened to Rublev? It was one of two things: he was half asleep or the stakes were too high. It’s happened before. He’s disappeared from four Slam quarterfinals and has never won a Masters 1000 on a hard court. 
It’s a crack he’s talked openly about. He’s an ultra-emotional player who hasn’t yet learned to access his best tennis in high-pressure situations. 
After giving away two breaks in the first set, Rublev found himself down 1-3 in the second. Then, a sudden burst of energy helped him break back and even things out. 
READ: <a href="https://nationalbankopen.com/news/read/2024/catching-up-acclaimed-musician-tennis-fan-alexandra-streliski" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Catching up with acclaimed musician and tennis fan Alexandra Stréliski</a> 
Popyrin stays the course

The reversal of fortune didn’t last. He was broken again and had trouble handling his rival’s laser-focused shots. A string of errors then put the match beyond his reach. 
The numbers don’t lie. In the end, Popyrin racked up 72 points, 10 aces and 3 double faults versus 54 points, 4 aces and 5 double faults for his opponent. 
Alexei Popyrin adds the most prestigious title of his career to the two ATP 250 championships already in his trophy case. For his efforts and the surprise he caused, he’ll pocket US$1,040,460, while Rublev will have to make do with US$573,090.
Featured photo by: Pascal Ratthé

Peroni

NBO Results

Peroni Refresh: Alexei Popyrin’s extraordinary feat!

Even before Rafael Nadal called it a career, the clay swing on the ATP Tour had being seeing more parity. The three clay Masters 1000 events have each had a different champion in every season since 2019. 
Guess who the last one to win two out of three was back in 2018.... anyway. 
Given the depth of field on the ATP Tour right now and the ups-and-downs for the established stars, it feels a bit like anything could happen over the coming weeks. The National Bank Open power rankings will try to tee things up. 
(Brackets indicate change in position since <a href="https://nationalbankopen.com/news/read/2025/atp-power-rankings-door-open-sunshine-double" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">the last edition of the Power Rankings</a> from before the Indian Wells.) 
<h3>1) Carlos Alcaraz (-) </h3>
<ul><li>Actual Ranking: 3 </li><li>2025 Record: 15-4 </li><li>Notable Recent Results: Indian Wells Semifinal </li><li>Best Big Clay Results: Madrid (Twice) and Roland-Garros (2024) Champion </li></ul>



By Alcaraz standards, the Spaniard has had a somewhat quiet start to the year. He did pick up a title indoors in Rotterdam back in February, but he was shut out at the Sunshine Double for the first time since 2021. <figure><iframe width="500" height="281" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/qfmaPQ36r3k" frameborder="0"></iframe></figure>
Interestingly, Alcaraz has participated much at the clay 1000 events. He has only played Monte-Carlo and Rome once each, putting up a combined 1-2 record at the two events. He has never won a match at the former. However, he has won Madrid twice and of course is the reigning Roland-Garros champion. 
While the ATP field is more open than it has been in decades, Alcaraz feels like the safest bet. 
<h3>2) Novak Djokovic (+1) </h3>
<ul><li>Actual Ranking: 5 </li><li>2025 Record: 12-5 </li><li>Notable Recent Results: Miami Runner-Up </li><li>Best Big Clay Results: Monte-Carlo (Twice), Madrid (Three Times), Rome (Six Times), and Roland-Garros (Three Times) Champion </li></ul>



Djokovic being considered a favourite at any tournament really needs no explanation. 
2025 has not been kind to the most successful player in the ATP’s history but Miami looked to be a turning point as he reached his first final of the season. Unfortunately, an eye infection may have played a role in <a href="https://nationalbankopen.com/news/read/2025/this-week-in-tennis-sabalenka-mensik-take-miami" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">denying him his 100th career tour-level title.</a> <figure><iframe width="500" height="281" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/NfPR1FdjtcM" frameborder="0"></iframe></figure>
Assuming he can carry the Miami form onto the clay, Djokovic can beat anyone on any day. He has not won a Masters 1000 on the dirt since 2022 but his lone title in 2024 was a clay-court victory on Court Philippe-Chatrier at the Olympics. 
<h3>3) Alexander Zverev (-1) </h3>
<ul><li>Actual Ranking: 2 </li><li>2025 Record: 14-6 </li><li>Notable Recent Results: Miami Fourth Round </li><li>Best Big Clay Results: Madrid (Twice) and Rome (Twice) Champion </li></ul>



Zverev will likely be leaving the Sunshine Double frustrated with missing a golden opportunity to reel in Jannik Sinner and the No. 1 ranking. The Italian was dropping 1400 points but Zverev only mustered two match wins at the two 1000 events, actually losing points rather than making a charge for No. 1. 
Read also: <a href="https://nationalbankopen.com/news/read/2025/q-a-nbo-toronto-tournament-director-karl-hale-why-12-day-format-will-great-fans" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Q and A - NBO Toronto Tournament Director Karl Hale on Why the 12-Day Format Will be Great for Fans</a>
He still has a decent chance to make up ground early in the clay swing as he only has a third-round in Monte-Carlo and a fourth-round in Madrid to defend, while Sinner cannot gain anything until at least Rome. Zverev had some of his best results last year on clay, winning in Rome and reaching the Roland-Garros final. 
<h3>4) Casper Ruud (+6) </h3>
<ul><li>Actual Ranking: 6 </li><li>2025 Record: 12-4 </li><li>Notable Recent Results: Miami Fourth Round </li><li>Best Big Clay Results: Monte-Carlo (2024) and Roland-Garros (Twice) Runner-Up </li></ul>



While it may be an unfair oversimplification, Ruud might be the closest thing to a clay-court specialist currently in the Top 10 of the ATP rankings. He has certainly had success on other surfaces, but there is no doubt he is at his best on the dirt. The Norwegian has reached the semifinals or better at all three Masters 1000 events on clay and is one of four men in the last 10 years (along with Nadal, Djokovic, and Dominic Thiem) to reach multiple Roland-Garros finals. 
Read also: <a href="https://nationalbankopen.com/news/read/2025/road-nbo-update-draxl-cross-continue-lead-after-march-itf-events" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Road to the NBO Update - Draxl, Cross Continue to Lead After March ITF Events</a>
The surface switch comes at a good time for Ruud, as he struggled at the Sunshine double. He only went 2-2 in Indian Wells and Miami, with both wins coming at the latter. The Norwegian has won at least one clay title every year since 2020. 
<h3>5) Jannik Sinner (New) </h3>
<ul><li>Actual Ranking: 1 </li><li>2025 Record: 7-0 </li><li>Best Big Clay Results: Monte-Carlo Semifinals (Twice) </li></ul>


The big question on the minds of most tennis fans: what can we expect from Jannik Sinner upon his return from suspension? 
Sinner is expected to be back at his home Masters 1000 event in Rome in May. He has not played a sanctioned tennis match since defeating Zverev in the Australian Open final in January. The year’s first major is the only tournament the world No. 1 has played this season. <figure><iframe width="500" height="281" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/F5B1QpU0Evo" frameborder="0"></iframe></figure>
Will there be rust? Will the home crowd in Rome give him a boost? Sinner is no slouch on clay but he is hardly a master either. He has never reached the final of a big clay event, although he does have a 250 title from 2022, beating Alcaraz in Umag, and led the eventual-champion Spaniard two sets to one in their Roland-Garros semifinal last year. 
<h3>6) Stefanos Tsitsipas (-1) </h3>
<ul><li>Actual Ranking: 8 </li><li>2025 Record: 11-6 </li><li>Notable Recent Results: Indian Wells Fourth Round </li><li>Best Big Clay Results: Monte-Carlo Champion (Three Times) </li></ul>



If there is one player on the ATP Tour who particularly loves one specific venue, it is Tsitsipas and the Monte Carlo Country Club. The Greek is the defending champion and has won three of the last four titles on the French Riviera. Something about the Mediterranean Sea air works for him. <figure><iframe width="500" height="281" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/JIkuu8tsTNo" frameborder="0"></iframe></figure>
The return to clay will be welcome for Tsitsipas, who was not able to ride his win in Dubai to success at the Sunshine Double. Over the last few years, the Greek has been one of the most consistent clay-courters on tour, having reached at least the final of all four big clay events. 
<h3>7) Holger Rune (New) </h3>
<ul><li>Actual Ranking: 12 </li><li>2025 Record: 11-8 </li><li>Notable Recent Results: Indian Wells Runner-Up </li><li>Best Big Clay Results: Monte-Carlo and Rome Runner-Up (2023) </li></ul>



Rune is already off to a better start in 2025 than last year. After reaching a pair of Masters 1000 finals in 2023, the young Dane failed to reach a title match at that level in 2024. In Indian Wells, he had his best run since Rome two years ago, taking out Tsitsipas and Daniil Medvedev on his way to the final. <figure><iframe width="500" height="281" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/qLo2onoryyM" frameborder="0"></iframe></figure>
In 2023, Rune was a force on clay, reaching two of the three Masters 1000 finals as well as the Roland-Garros quarters. Two of his four career titles were on clay. If the 21-year-old is locked in, he can do a lot of damage over the coming months. 
<h3>8) Taylor Fritz (-2) </h3>
<ul><li>Actual Ranking: 4 </li><li>2025 Record: 14-6 </li><li>Notable Recent Results: Miami Semifinal </li><li>Best Big Clay Results: Monte-Carlo (2023) and Madrid (2024) Semifinals </li></ul>



Fritz had the unfortunate luck of losing to the eventual champion in both legs of the Sunshine Double. He lost in round four of Indian Wells to Jack Draper and dropped a thriller to Jakub Mensik in the semifinals of Miami. 
Read also: <a href="https://www.tenniscanada.com/news/pro-tennis/2025/slow-starts-cost-shapovalov-against-fritz-in-miami-round-three" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Slow Starts Cost Shapovalov Against Fritz in Miami Round Three</a>
Generally in the 21st century, American men have struggled on clay. Only one American man has even reached the final of, let alone won, a 1000 or major since 2000. That was Andre Agassi, who lifted the trophy in Rome in 2002. Fritz has come close through with a couple of semifinal runs in recent years. He has a good all-court game and could take advantage if the draw opens up. 
<h3>9) Andrey Rublev (-5) </h3>
<ul><li>Actual Ranking: 9 </li><li>2025 Record: 9-7 </li><li>Notable Recent Results: Indian Wells and Miami R2 </li><li>Best Big Clay Results: Monte-Carlo (2023) and Madrid (2024) Champion </li></ul>



Like Tsitsipas, Rublev seems to save his best results for the clay 1000 events, although his have not been exclusive to one venue. Rublev has reached the final at five different Masters 1000 events but all of his wins came on clay. He has won at least one clay 1000 event each of the last two years. <figure><iframe width="500" height="281" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/HhaH37FvIFw" frameborder="0"></iframe></figure>
Rublev desperately needs the clay to provide a reset. After winning his title in Doha, he has lost his opening match at three consecutive events, including both legs of the Sunshine Double. Keep in mind last year he arrived in Madrid on a four-match losing streak and proceeded to win the title. Rublev can turn it around on a dime. 
<h3>10) Jack Draper (New) </h3>
<ul><li>Actual Ranking: 7 </li><li>2025 Record: 13-3 </li><li>Notable Recent Results: Indian Wells Champion </li><li>Best Big Clay Results: Madrid and Rome Second Round (2024) </li></ul>



Draper should be arriving on clay full of confidence after winning <a href="https://nationalbankopen.com/news/read/2025/this-week-tennis-draper-andreeva-take-indian-wells" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">his first Masters 1000 title in Indian Wells</a>. He took down a murderer’s row of opponents in that title run including Joao Fonseca, Fritz, Ben Shelton, Alcaraz, and Rune, with only Alcaraz able to steal a set. Even Draper’s subsequent opening-match loss in Miami is forgivable as he was beaten by the eventual champion Mensik. <figure><iframe width="500" height="281" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/r_u4fVOD9Ng" frameborder="0"></iframe></figure>
The thing is, to put it mildly, Draper does not have a good record on clay. He also does not have much experience, having not played any of the big events more than twice. But he has a combined 4-7 record at the three 1000s and Roland-Garros and has never made it past the second round of any of them. 
The National Bank Open Power Rankings are a group collaboration by the Power Rankings Panel which includes:
<ul><li><a href="https://bsky.app/profile/peteb93.bsky.social" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Pete Borkowski</a> – Manager of Editorial and Player Coverage, Tennis Canada</li><li><a href="https://twitter.com/boydmel" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Melissa Boyd</a> – Content Writer, Tennis Canada</li><li><a href="https://twitter.com/ChampagneSJade" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sarah-Jade Champagne</a> – Content Specialist, Tennis Canada</li><li><a href="https://x.com/JChan_811" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Jonathan Chan</a> - Content Contributor, Tennis Canada</li><li><a href="https://twitter.com/EddieJonesLee" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Edward Lee</a> – Content Contributor, Tennis Canada</li><li><a href="https://twitter.com/hulight" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Hugues Leger</a> – Producer, Podcast Sur La Ligne</li><li><a href="https://x.com/Charobillardmi" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Charlotte Robillard-Millette</a> – Communications Coordinator, Tennis Canada</li><li><a href="https://twitter.com/SanterreAbraham" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Abraham Santerre</a> – Content Creator, Podcast Sur La Ligne</li><li>Patrick Steski - Content Contributor, Tennis Canada</li><li><a href="https://x.com/raviubha" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ravi Ubha</a> - Content Contributor, Tennis Canada</li></ul>
Bold Prediction: 




<ul><li>Pete: Jannik Sinner arrives at Roland-Garros without a match win since the Australian Open </li><li>Jonathan: Sinner returns from his suspension and wins one of the two events (Rome or Hamburg) he plays in ahead of Roland-Garros. </li><li>Pat: Joao Fonseca will enter the Top 20 ahead of Roland-Garros </li><li>Ravi: Daniil Medvedev will win a clay court title </li><li>Charlotte: Jakub Mensik reaches another big final. </li></ul>
The ATP's best return to Toronto this summer for the National Bank Open presented by Rogers July 27 to Aug. 7, 2025 at Sobeys Stadium. 2025 Tickets are on sale. <a href="https://nationalbankopen.com/toronto/toronto-tickets-packages" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Get your tickets today!</a>
Feature Photo: Corinne Dubreuil//ATP Tour

Experts

ATP Power Rankings: Who Will Fill the King’s Void on Clay?

In the last few years, this has been a stretch of the season dominated by Iga Swiatek. But the momentum on tour is different this time around as the Pole has not had as good a start to the season on hard courts as she has in previous years, while the world No. 1 is arriving in good form. So is another rising star who has taken the world by storm in the first three months of the season. 
As the surface softens, let’s take a look at how the WTA stars stack up on the clay. 
(Brackets indicate change in position since <a href="https://nationalbankopen.com/news/read/2025/wta-power-rankings-big-names-look-get-back-on-track-sunshine-double" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">the last edition of the Power Rankings</a> from before Indian Wells.) 
<h3>1) Aryna Sabalenka (-) </h3>
<ul><li>Actual Ranking: 1 </li><li>2025 Record: 23-4 </li><li>Notable Recent Results: Miami Champion </li><li>Best Big Clay Results: Madrid Champion (Twice) </li></ul>
Heading into the Miami Open, Sabalenka had had a good start to the year but only had one WTA 500 title to show for it, having lost in both the Australian Open and Indian Wells finals. But she reminded everyone why she is the No.1-ranked player in the world over the last fortnight, <a href="https://nationalbankopen.com/news/read/2025/this-week-in-tennis-sabalenka-mensik-take-miami" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">winning Miami without dropping a set</a>, taking out the defending champion and three Top 10 players on route. 
<figure><iframe width="500" height="281" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/PhvaeRprWEE" frameborder="0"></iframe></figure>
Now she will look to cement her top spot on the clay. 
Despite hard court being her best surface, Sabalenka is no slouch on the dirt. She is a two-time Madrid champion and very nearly made it three last year in the WTA’s match of the year against Iga Swiatek. She has also reached the semifinals of Roland-Garros in the past. The fact is a ball as big as Sabalenka’s can bust through on any surface. 
<h3>2) Iga Swiatek (-) </h3>
<ul><li>Actual Ranking: 2 </li><li>2025 Record: 21-6 </li><li>Notable Recent Results: Indian Wells semifinals </li><li>Best Big Clay Results: Rome (three times), Madrid (2024), and Roland-Garros (four times) champion </li></ul>
There probably is not anyone in the world happier to be arriving on clay than the surface’s Queen. 
Swiatek has had a slow start to the year by her lofty standards. Despite reaching the quarter-finals or better at all four WTA 1000s and the Australian Open in the first three months of 2025, she failed to reach a final on the early hard courts for the first time since 2021. 
<figure><iframe width="500" height="281" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/gF8CwX8Hdkw" frameborder="0"></iframe></figure>
But now the four-time Roland-Garros champion is back on her favourite surface. She swept the big clay events in 2024, completing a clay triple crown with wins in Madrid, Rome, and Roland-Garros. She went 26-2 on the surface last year. Sabalenka may be No. 1 in the rankings, but Swiatek is the most dominant force on clay the women’s game has seen in decades. 
<h3>3) Coco Gauff (-) </h3>
<ul><li>Actual Ranking: 3 </li><li>2025 Record: 13-5 </li><li>Notable Recent Results: Indian Wells and Miami R4 </li><li>Best Big Clay Results: Roland-Garros Runner-Up (2022) </li></ul>
Gauff has had an interesting relationship with clay throughout her young career. On the one hand, Roland-Garros has been her most consistent major, having reached at least the quarter-finals in four straight years including her maiden major final back in 2022. On the other, she has struggled at the 1000s, with two semifinal runs in Rome being the only two times she got past the round of 16. 
Read also: <a href="https://nationalbankopen.com/news/read/2025/the-wta-ushers-new-era-powerful-rally-world-brand-identity" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The WTA Ushers in a New Era with Powerful Rally the World Brand Identity</a>
It has been a tough few months for Gauff. She's gone 4-4 since reaching the quarter-finals of the Australian Open, failing to get past the round of 16 in either leg of the Sunshine Double. Perhaps a surface like clay that rewards her speed and defensive abilities will help rejuvenate the former US Open champion. 
<h3>4) Mirra Andreeva (+2) </h3>
<ul><li>Actual Ranking: 7 </li><li>2025 Record: 20-4 </li><li>Notable Recent Results: Indian Wells Champion </li><li>Best Big Clay Results: Roland-Garros Semifinal (2024) </li></ul>
Andreeva is not a rising star anymore, she’s just a star. She backed up her breakout win in Dubai with a second consecutive WTA 1000 victory in Indian Wells, cementing herself in the Top 10. The teen beat Swiatek and Sabalenka back-to-back to claim the title in Tennis Paradise. 
<figure><iframe width="500" height="281" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/GxRhiRvlgzM" frameborder="0"></iframe></figure>
There is not much reason to believe Andreeva will slow down on the clay. Her best major result came on the dirt last year at Roland-Garros, beating Sabalenka on her way to the semis. She has also reached at least the fourth round in both her previous appearances in Madrid and won her first career title on the dirt last July. 
<h3>5) Jasmine Paolini (New) </h3>
<ul><li>Actual Ranking: 6 </li><li>2025 Record: 12-6 </li><li>Notable Recent Results: Miami Semifinal </li><li>Best Big Clay Results: Roland-Garros Runner-Up (2024) </li></ul>
During her breakout 2024 campaign, Paolini proved to be strong on all surfaces with a WTA 1000 win on hard and major finals on clay and grass. The Italian had a slower start to 2025 but will arrive on clay on the heels of her best result of the season, reaching the semis in Miami. 
Read also: <a href="https://nationalbankopen.com/news/read/2025/road-nbo-update-draxl-cross-continue-lead-after-march-itf-events" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Road to the NBO Update - Draxl, Cross Continue to Lead After March ITF Events</a>
While she has never won a title on clay, Paolini is not to be underestimated. Her Roland-Garros finals run last year included wins over Rybakina and Andreeva. As she demonstrated in 2024, the Italian also has a knack for playing her best tennis in big events. 
<h3>6) Jessica Pegula (-1) </h3>
<ul><li>Actual Ranking: 4 </li><li>2025 Record: 20-6 </li><li>Notable Recent Results: Miami Runner-Up </li><li>Best Big Clay Results: Madrid Runner-Up (2022) </li></ul>
Pegula should be arriving on clay full of confidence after reaching the Miami final. It was not the toughest draw, she did not beat anyone inside the Top 25, but wins are wins. She has now reached at least one WTA 1000 final in four consecutive seasons. 
<figure><iframe width="500" height="281" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/q-b8NnPNUiQ" frameborder="0"></iframe></figure>
Over the years, Pegula has been solid on clay. She has reached at least the quarter-finals at all three big clay events and even got to the final of Madrid in 2022. While that Madrid final is her only final on the surface, Pegula can be relied on to get some match wins and could take advantage of a draw that opens up.
<h3>7) Madison Keys (-3) </h3>
<ul><li>Actual Ranking: 5 </li><li>2025 Record: 19-3 </li><li>Notable Recent Results: Indian Wells Semifinal </li><li>Best Big Clay Results: Rome Runner-Up (2016) </li></ul>
Keys made her debut as <a href="https://nationalbankopen.com/news/read/2025/this-week-tennis-keys-sinner-win-australian-open-singles-titles" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">a major champio</a>n in Indian Wells and picked up where she left off in Melbourne, getting to the semis before finally Sabalenka snapped the American's 16-match winning streak to start 2025. In Miami, she was one of many surprise victims of Alexandra Eala. 
Read also: <a href="https://nationalbankopen.com/news/read/2025/q-a-nbo-montreal-tournament-director-valerie-tetreault-keys-halep-planning-12-day-format" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Q and A - NBO Montreal Tournament Director Valérie Tétreault on Keys, Halep, and Planning for a 12-Day Format</a>
Last year, Keys’ best results came on clay as she reached the semifinals of Madrid and quarter-finals of Rome. She has also reached the semifinals of Roland-Garros although that was back in 2018. In any case, Keys has shown comfort on the surface and her big-hitting makes her an all-surface threat. 
<h3>8) Qinwen Zheng (New) </h3>
<ul><li>Actual Ranking: 8 </li><li>2025 Record: 7-5 </li><li>Notable Recent Results: Indian Wells and Miami Quarter-Final </li><li>Best Big Clay Results: Olympic Gold Medal at Paris 2024 </li></ul>
In the last three years, only one woman has broken Iga Swiatek’s aura of invincibility at Stade Roland-Garros in Paris: Zheng. The Chinese handed the Pole her lone defeat on the Parisian clay since 2021 last summer, albeit during the Olympics rather than the Grand Slam event. However, Zheng did also cause Swiatek problems in their 2022 fourth-round clash at the clay major too, so if there is one player on tour who history has proven can push the Queen of Clay, it’s Zheng. 
<figure><iframe width="500" height="281" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/3e-ApJ_YhXI" frameborder="0"></iframe></figure>
The 22-year-old will arrive on the dirt after a solid showing at the Sunshine Double. She was one of just three women, along with Swiatek and Sabalenka, to reach at least the quarter-finals in both Indian Wells and Miami. 
<h3>9) Paula Badosa (-2) </h3>
<ul><li>Actual Ranking: 9 </li><li>2025 Record: 12-7 </li><li>Notable Recent Results: Miami Fourth Round </li><li>Best Big Clay Results: Madrid Semifinal (2021) </li></ul>
It has been a strange stretch over the last few months for Paula Badosa since she came back from injury in 2024. When the Spaniard is healthy, she often looks like the Top 10 player that she is. But staying healthy still remains a problem. 
Read also: <a href="https://www.tenniscanada.com/news/pro-tennis/2025/victoria-mboko-stepping-into-the-spotlight-after-incredible-start-to-2025" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Victoria Mboko Stepping Into the Spotlight After Incredible Start to 2025</a>
She missed Indian Wells and then pulled out in the fourth round of Miami with a back injury. The last tournament she finished without an injury withdrawal was Dubai back in February. 
<h3>10) Elena Rybakina (-2) </h3>
<ul><li>Actual Ranking: 10 </li><li>2025 Record: 15-7 </li><li>Notable Recent Results: Indian Wells Fourth Round </li><li>Best Big Clay Results: Rome Champion (2023) </li></ul>
Rybakina is a bit of a contradiction on clay. Her style, which relies heavily on the serve, is not one that often translates well to the surface. However, she has had success on clay before, including a Rome title in 2023 and a Madrid semi last year. She has also won both her previous meetings with Swiatek on the Pole’s favourite surface, including last year in Stuttgart. 
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There are some concerns for the Kazakhstani heading into the clay season. She did not have great results on the early hard courts which normally suit her better. So far this year, she has lost twice to Swiatek and twice to Andreeva. 
The National Bank Open Power Rankings are a group collaboration by the Power Rankings Panel which includes:
<ul><li><a href="https://bsky.app/profile/peteb93.bsky.social" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Pete Borkowski</a> – Manager of Editorial and Player Coverage, Tennis Canada</li><li><a href="https://twitter.com/boydmel" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Melissa Boyd</a> – Content Writer, Tennis Canada</li><li><a href="https://twitter.com/ChampagneSJade" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sarah-Jade Champagne</a> – Content Specialist, Tennis Canada</li><li><a href="https://x.com/JChan_811" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Jonathan Chan</a> - Content Contributor, Tennis Canada</li><li><a href="https://twitter.com/EddieJonesLee" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Edward Lee</a> – Content Contributor, Tennis Canada</li><li><a href="https://twitter.com/hulight" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Hugues Leger</a> – Producer, Podcast Sur La Ligne</li><li><a href="https://x.com/Charobillardmi" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Charlotte Robillard-Millette</a> – Communications Coordinator, Tennis Canada</li><li><a href="https://twitter.com/SanterreAbraham" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Abraham Santerre</a> – Content Creator, Podcast Sur La Ligne</li><li>Patrick Steski - Content Contributor, Tennis Canada</li><li><a href="https://x.com/raviubha" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ravi Ubha</a> - Content Contributor, Tennis Canada</li></ul>
Bold prediction for the clay swing: 
<ul><li>Pete: Aryna Sabalenka gets a win on clay over Swiatek before Roland-Garros </li><li>Jonathan: Coco Gauff reaches the final in multiple stops on the way to Paris as she builds momentum towards Roland-Garros. </li><li>Sarah-Jade: There will be different champions at every tournament during the clay swing. </li><li>Pat: Iga Swiatek defends both Madrid and Rome titles. </li><li>Charlotte: Elina Svitolina reaches a big final. </li></ul>
The WTA's best return to Montreal this summer for the National Bank Open July 26 to Aug. 7, 2025 at IGA Stadium. 2025 Tickets are on sale. <a href="https://nationalbankopen.com/montreal/montreal-tickets-packages" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Get your tickets today!</a>
Feature Photo : Reuters/Susana Vera

WTA Power Rankings: Can Swiatek Reassert Clay Dominance?

<h3>Sabalenka wins first Miami Open</h3>
Aryna Sabalenka defeated Jessica Pegula 7-5, 6-2 on Saturday night to win the Miami Open for the first time in her career. 
The world No. 1 claimed the 19th WTA tour title of her career and second of 2025 after she opened the season by winning the Brisbane International. Sabalenka, 26, reached the final in four of six events in 2025 but fell to Mirra Andreeva at Indian Wells and <a href="https://nationalbankopen.com/news/read/2025/this-week-tennis-keys-sinner-win-australian-open-singles-titles" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Madison Keys at the Australian Open</a>. 
<figure><iframe width="500" height="281" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/PhvaeRprWEE" frameborder="0"></iframe></figure>
“Finally I was able to play my best tennis in the finals,’’ Sabalenka said. “I’m super happy to hold this beautiful trophy. I feel like home here. Even though I’m travelling every week, it still feels like home.’’
The three-time Grand Slam winner now holds a 7-2 record all-time against Pegula and has won each of the past three matches. 
Read Also: <a href="https://www.tenniscanada.com/news/monday-digest-mboko-the-bright-spot-in-miami/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mboko the Bright Spot in Miami</a>
With six hard-court WTA 1000 titles, Sabalenka trails only Victoria Azarenka (10) and Serena Williams (eight) for most career 1000-level wins on the surface.
Sabalenka will now rest in preparation for the clay-court season, during which she will play in Stuttgart, Madrid, Rome, and Roland-Garros in search of her first French Open title.
<a href="https://www.tenniscanada.com/news/monday-digest-diallo-return-highlights-start-of-clay-season/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Click here for more news about Canadian tennis players.</a>
<h3>Mensik wins first ATP title</h3>
Teenage phenom Jakub Mensik weathered a rain delay that lasted more than five hours to defeat Novak Djokovic 7-6(4), 7-6(4) to win his first ATP Tour title.
Djokovic, the world No. 5, was in search of his 100th ATP Tour title and record seventh in Miami but could not overcome the 19-year-old as he battled an eye infection. 
Read also: <a href="https://nationalbankopen.com/news/read/2025/road-nbo-update-draxl-cross-continue-lead-after-march-itf-events" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Road to the NBO Update - Draxl, Cross Continue to Lead After March ITF Events</a>
“It feels incredible, obviously," Mensik said in his on-court interview. "It was probably the biggest day of my life and I did super, which I'm really glad [about], to show the performance and keep the nerves outside of the court before the match.”
<figure><iframe width="500" height="281" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/NfPR1FdjtcM" frameborder="0"></iframe></figure>
Mensik became the second-youngest player to hoist the trophy in Miami only behind Carlos Alcaraz, who won in 2022 as an 18-year-old. He also eliminated world No. 4 Taylor Fritz and Indian Wells champion, No. 7 Jack Draper en route to the final.
The Prostejov, Czech Republic, native rises to a career-high rank of 24 with the victory. 
Read Also: <a href="https://www.tenniscanada.com/news/march-mailbag-sharon-fichman-on-getting-into-tennis-and-the-growth-of-the-womens-game/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sharon Fichman on Getting Into Tennis and the Growth of the Women’s Game</a>
All winners from last week:
Miami Open 1000
<ul><li>Men’s Singles: Jakub Mensik *(1/1) d. Novak Djokovic</li><li>Women’s Singles: Aryna Sabalenka (2/19) d. Jessica Pegula</li><li>Men’s Doubles: Mate Pavic/Marcelo Arevalo</li><li>Women’s Doubles: Mirra Andreeva/Diana Shnaider</li></ul>
* (Titles in 2025/Career Titles)
The ATP's best return to Toronto this summer for the National Bank Open presented by Rogers July 27 to Aug. 7, 2025 at Sobeys Stadium. 2025 Tickets are on sale. <a href="https://nationalbankopen.com/toronto/toronto-tickets-packages">Get your tickets today!</a>
The WTA's best return to Montreal this summer for the National Bank Open presented by Rogers July 26 to Aug. 7, 2025 at IGA Stadium. 2025 Tickets are on sale. <a href="https://nationalbankopen.com/montreal/montreal-tickets-packages">Get your tickets today!</a>
Feature Photo: @SabalenkaA

This Week In Tennis: Sabalenka, Mensik take Miami

*Please note: This article was originally published on tenniscanada.com on March 18, 2025, prior to the start of play at the Miami Open. The original article appears here. For Mboko's results in Miami, please click the links at the bottom of the article. 
The 18-year-old, who was born in North Carolina but moved to Toronto as a small child and grew up watching tennis at Sobeys Stadium, has been long tapped as the next Canadian star and this year she is truly living up to her potential. She opened up the season on a 22-match winning streak, winning four titles in a row without even dropping a set, including one as a qualifier. 
Her <a href="https://www.tenniscanada.com/news/monday-digest-mboko-stays-perfect-in-2025/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">20 consecutive main-draw match wins</a> were the most by a Canadian woman since the ITF began keeping such records in 1994, breaking Rebecca Marino’s record of 18. As a result of her hot start to the season, Mboko leapt into the Top 200 of the WTA rankings for the first time and is currently the fifth-highest-ranked Canadian woman in singles at No. 162. 
Reminder, she is just 18 years old. 
For fans who might not be as familiar with Mboko, there is a reason for that. Over the last few years, injuries have held her back. But now that she is healthy in 2025, the teen is showing the world what she can do. 

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Last Friday, the Torontonian spoke to the media and explained that “I didn't really do a lot last year. I was coming off injuries. I was training in Europe. I was really far away from home, I didn't really get a lot of opportunities to play close to home or a lot of tournaments in general. So when I started playing this year, I had a pretty busy schedule. I was really pumped to play a lot of matches and was really excited just to get on the court and just play freely. New Year, clean slate. I'm glad it's been going well and hopefully, I can continue doing well. So far so good.”
Read also: <a href="https://www.tenniscanada.com/news/lacasse-scores-doubles-title-at-itf-event-in-montreal/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Lacasse Scores Doubles Title at ITF Event in Montreal</a>
Learning how to handle success is part of professional development for young athletes. Winning is great, but it is also important to stay focused. It is fair to say that Mboko has handled it well so far in 2025. 
"When all of that [the winning streak] was happening, I wasn't super surprised because every match I play, I want to win. Looking back on it, to have achieved that, it's kind of surprising for me. I would have never thought that I was going do something like that,” said the 18-year-old. “In the first two months, I felt like I had a lot of confidence with my game when I had the win streak. I felt very confident and comfortable with my game. So to continue like that was honestly really, really fun and really nice, and it gave me a better feeling of where I am with my game.” 
When she finally lost in the first round of an ITF W50 in France, she immediately responded the following week by <a href="https://www.tenniscanada.com/news/monday-digest-shapovalov-set-for-alcaraz-clash-in-indian-wells/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">picking up title No. 5 at a W75 in Porto, Portugal</a>, the biggest title of her career to date. 
<figure><img src="https://www.tenniscanada.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/483037385_941743128116127_4907339880095659155_n-1024x683.jpg" alt="" /></figure>
“It's not possible to win every single match that you're going to play. I feel like I was able to recover quickly, because I put in my head that ‘yeah, I had a good start to the to the year, but it's quite impossible to win every single match,’” explained Mboko. “So for me to recover from that, I brushed it off a little bit. I'm like, ‘You know what? It's a new week, just play, just try your hardest and aim for the title.’ That's what I do every other week, I try to win. So to win in Portugal was really exciting. It was a really good feeling." 
Read also: <a href="https://www.tenniscanada.com/news/february-mailbag-guillaume-marx-on-canadas-pro-success-and-coaching-future-stars/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mailbag - Guillaume Marx on Canada’s Pro Success and Coaching Future Stars</a>
It has been such a successful start to the season that Mboko actually had a hard time getting some of her trophies home. 
"The first two tournaments I won, I was coming back from the Caribbean, and [the trophies] are pretty big plates. So to get them through the airport, with security, they're not very nice when they see big trophies or big pieces of metal like that. So when it came time to bring them through airport security and customs, especially going on an international flight, it wasn't easy at all. For my dad as well. I met up with him in Montreal and he didn't have a big luggage with him, so he had to bring them by hand.” 
As of Mar. 17, Mboko’s 25 main-draw match wins and five titles both lead the ITF Tour in 2025. Including qualifying she is 27-1 in singles, with a 53-4 record in sets. For good measure, she also won her first two doubles tournaments of the year too. 
<figure><img src="https://www.tenniscanada.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Victoria-Mboko-Manchester.jpg" alt="Victoria Mboko holds the trophy in Manchester, her fourth title already in 2025." /></figure>
That incredible start earned her a main-draw wildcard into the Miami Open, which will be her first main draw at the WTA 1000 level. 
“I was so excited,” said Mboko of getting the Miami wildcard. “It's a 1000, right below the Grand Slams. I was grateful for the opportunity that I received. To play in Miami too, it's so fun. I'm really happy, and I was really excited.” 
Read also: <a href="https://nationalbankopen.com/news/read/2025/q-a-nbo-toronto-tournament-director-karl-hale-why-12-day-format-will-great-fans" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Q and A – NBO Toronto Tournament Director Karl Hale on Why the 12-Day Format Will be Great for Fans</a>
When Mboko spoke to the media on Friday, the draw had not yet been released but she was asked who she would like to play. 
“I’m not really thinking of anyone in particular, but maybe even playing a Top 10 player, regardless of who it is, would be such a big opportunity. You get to showcase what you can do. I don't think people know me here, so hopefully, when I play, I can really show what I bring to the table and hopefully come out with the win." 
She won’t quite get her wish but c<a href="https://www.tenniscanada.com/news/monday-digest-canadians-look-for-reset-in-miami/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ould get a high-ranked opponent quite quickly in Miami</a>. The first Top 10 player Mboko could play is Madison Keys in the fourth round but she could have a high-ranked opponent even earlier. She plays Camila Osorio in the first round and a victory would set up a clash with World No. 11 Paula Badosa. 
<figure><iframe width="500" height="281" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/MCpCYDriKnU" frameborder="0"></iframe></figure>
Mboko made her professional debut in July 2021, a month before her 15th birthday. Less than a year later, she reached her first professional final, a W25 in Monastir, Tunisia, and three months after that picked up her first title at age 15, winning on home soil in Saskatoon. A month after that, she made her first and, prior to the upcoming Miami Open, only appearance in a WTA Tour main draw at the 250 event in Granby, QC, losing to her veteran countrywoman Marino.
Even in the midst of all this early success in 2025, Mboko knows that there is still room to grow. 
“[The streak] did do a lot for my confidence but at the same time, I also wanted to work on things. My game's not perfect. Not everyone's game is not going to be 100% perfect. It made me mentally tougher with myself, and I feel obviously good about myself. But at the end of the day, I also want to polish a little bit more. As I go up in the level, it's going to get harder, and my weaknesses are going to get exploited a lot more. So keep improving is very important for me.” 
Read also: <a href="https://nationalbankopen.com/news/read/2025/this-week-tennis-draper-andreeva-take-indian-wells" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Draper, Andreeva Take Indian Wells</a>
As well as the Miami wildcard, Mboko also <a href="https://www.tenniscanada.com/news/marino-stakusic-mboko-cross-and-arseneault-set-to-represent-team-canada-at-billie-jean-king-cup-qualifiers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">got the nod to join Team Canada at the Billie Jean King Cup</a> for the first time at the upcoming qualifiers in April. 
“When I got selected to play for Team Canada, I was super excited. It's a big honour to play for the country and especially playing abroad for your country. It's a super great feeling, carrying the flag on your back. Being a part of this, it's super uplifting and to play alongside such great players like Rebecca and Marina, I'm really excited for this and I feel like I'm going to learn a lot.” 
It is going to be a big month, and hopefully career, for the young Canadian. 
*Mboko won her first-round match in Miami over Osorio before losing in round two to Badosa. Click the links below to read about her results:<ul><li><a href="https://www.tenniscanada.com/news/mboko-claims-first-wta-tour-win-in-miami-debut/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mboko Claims First WTA Tour Win in Miami Debut</a></li><li><a href="https://www.tenniscanada.com/news/mboko-pushes-but-loses-thriller-to-badosa-in-miami/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mboko Pushes but Loses Thriller to Badosa in Miami</a></li></ul>
The WTA's best return to Montreal this summer for the National Bank Open presented by Rogers July 26 to Aug. 7, 2025 at IGA Stadium. 2025 Tickets are on sale. <a href="https://nationalbankopen.com/montreal/montreal-tickets-packages">Get your tickets today!</a>
Feature Photo : Mauricio Paiz

Features

Victoria Mboko Stepping Into the Spotlight After Incredible Start to 2025

<h3>Top Seeds Ousted Early in Miami</h3>
Australian Open champion Madison Keys was upset in the third round of the 2025 Miami Open by Alexandra Eala 6-4, 6-2. Eala also upset No. 25 Jelena Ostapenko en route to the round of 16. The 19-year-old became the first Filipino player to beat a Top 10 opponent since the WTA rankings began in 1975. 
“I don’t think I’ve had the time to process everything that’s happened,” Eala said, “so I’m taking it step by step and just focusing on what I need to do next. It’s a big thing to take in, and I’m so super proud of what I was able to accomplish, but it definitely fuels me more.
“I know and it's in my mind that I have a next match, but I need to stop, and I need to recognize that what I did today was really amazing.”
Read also: <a href="https://nationalbankopen.com/news/read/2025/the-wta-ushers-new-era-powerful-rally-world-brand-identity" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The WTA Ushers in a New Era with Powerful Rally the World Brand Identity</a>
Indian Wells and Dubai champion Mirra Andreeva saw her 13-match win streak snapped in the third round, falling to Amanda Anisimova in a three-set thriller 7-6(5), 2-6, 6-3.
No. 7 Elena Rybakina was ousted in the second round by unseeded Ashlyn Krueger 6-4, 2-6, 6-4, while eighth seed Emma Navarro, who won the Akron Open at the beginning of the month, dropped her opening match to Emma Raducanu 7-6(6), 2-6, 7-6(3).
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Both ATP finalists from Indian Wells were eliminated early at the Miami Open.
BNP Paribas Open champion Jack Draper went down in the second round 7-6(2), 7-6(3) to Jakub Mensik. Runner-up, No. 11 seed Holger Rune, was unable to keep up his momentum, falling to unseeded Reilly Opelka 4-6, 6-3. 7-6(5) in the second round.
No. 2 Carlos Alcaraz fell in a stunning second-round upset to David Goffin 5-7, 6-4, 6-3. Alcaraz was shut out at the Sunshine Double for the first time since 2021. Eighth-seeded Andrey Rublev was also eliminated in his first Miami matchup, falling to Zizou Bergs in straight sets 7-5, 6-4. 
Read Also: <a href="https://www.tenniscanada.com/news/victoria-mboko-stepping-into-the-spotlight-after-incredible-start-to-2025/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Victoria Mboko Stepping Into the Spotlight After Incredible Start to 2025</a>
<h3>Mboko Makes Waves</h3>
Canadian teenager Victoria Mboko had a big week in Miami, earning her <a href="https://www.tenniscanada.com/news/mboko-claims-first-wta-tour-win-in-miami-debut/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">first WTA main draw victory</a> with a 7-5, 5-7, 6-3 win over world No. 54 Camila Osorio. 
In her second-round match, the 18-year-old gave 10th seed Paula Badosa all she could handle before <a href="https://www.tenniscanada.com/news/mboko-pushes-but-loses-thriller-to-badosa-in-miami/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">falling 7-5, 1-6, 7-6 (3)</a>. 
<figure><iframe width="500" height="281" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/H2l9yWwyrSo" frameborder="0"></iframe></figure>
Mboko was given a wild-card entry to the Miami Open after starting the ITF season with a 22-match win streak where she did not drop a set. She reached a career-high rank of No. 162 entering Miami and will reach new heights with her promising performance.
Fellow Canadians Felix Auger-Aliassime and Leylah Annie Fernandez were unable to advance past the round of 32. <a href="https://www.tenniscanada.com/news/auger-aliassime-cant-hold-off-musetti-in-miami-round-three/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Auger-Aliassime fell to No. 15 Lorenzo Musetti 4-6, 6-2, 6-3</a>, while Fernandez was defeated by Ashlyn Krueger 6-1, 7-5. 
Denis Shapovalov is the lone Canadian remaining in the single draw and will face third-seeded Taylor Fritz in his third-round match on Monday.
Read also: <a href="https://www.tenniscanada.com/news/shapovalov-fernandez-diallo-2025-miami-saturday/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Fernandez, Diallo Out of Miami</a>
<a href="https://www.tenniscanada.com/news/monday-digest-mboko-the-bright-spot-in-miami/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Click here for more news about Canadian tennis players.</a> 

The ATP's best return to Toronto this summer for the National Bank Open presented by Rogers July 27 to Aug. 7, 2025 at Sobeys Stadium. 2025 Tickets are on sale. <a href="https://nationalbankopen.com/toronto/toronto-tickets-packages">Get your tickets today!</a>
The WTA's best return to Montreal this summer for the National Bank Open presented by Rogers July 26 to Aug. 7, 2025 at IGA Stadium. 2025 Tickets are on sale. <a href="https://nationalbankopen.com/montreal/montreal-tickets-packages">Get your tickets today!</a>
Feature Photo : Miami Open

This Week in Tennis: Heating up in Miami

As of Mar. 17, the two frontrunners continue to hold big leads heading into the final events. But, especially on the men’s side, it’s not over yet as all the remaining tournaments in the <a href="https://nationalbankopen.com/news/read/2025/introducing-road-nbo-tennis-canada-award-wild-card-canadian-winner" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Road to the NBO</a> will count double. 
<figure style="margin-left:auto;margin-right:auto;text-align:center;"><img src="https://assets.nationalbankopen.com/production/news/_default/12275816/Screenshot-2025-03-18-154532.webp" alt="" /></figure>
Liam Draxl did not compete at the two M15 events in <a href="https://www.tenniscanada.com/news/martin-wins-in-sherbrooke-canadians-shut-out-in-trois-rivieres/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sherbrooke</a> and <a href="https://www.tenniscanada.com/news/lacasse-scores-doubles-title-at-itf-event-in-montreal/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Montreal</a> earlier in March but he still finds himself out front in the men’s standings after titles last fall in Edmonton and Saint-Augustin. He has twice as many points as second-place Alexis Galarneau with three events to play.
However, as all three of those tournaments count for double points, there is still plenty of room for the field to catch up to the man from Newmarket. 
Read also: <a href="https://nationalbankopen.com/news/read/2025/q-a-nbo-toronto-tournament-director-karl-hale-why-12-day-format-will-great-fans" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Q and A - NBO Toronto Tournament Director Karl Hale on Why the 12-Day Format Will be Great for Fans</a>
Joshua Lapadat picked up the most ground during the March events in Quebec. He did not participate in any of the fall tournaments that counted towards the <a href="https://nationalbankopen.com/news/read/2025/introducing-road-nbo-tennis-canada-award-wild-card-canadian-winner" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Road to the NBO</a> but now sits in third place behind Draxl and Galarneau after reaching the final in Montreal. He also got a point for reaching the second round in Sherbrooke. 
<figure><iframe width="500" height="281" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/hIfNVNIRQfA" frameborder="0"></iframe></figure>
There are still as many as 350 points up for grabs if a player were to win all three remaining events ahead of the National Bank Open. The M25 event in Laval, QC, is next up on the calendar beginning on June 30. It will be followed by back-to-back M75s in Winnipeg, MB, and Granby, QC.
With so many points up for grabs at the remaining events, there is still plenty of time for a shakeup in the men’s standings. 
The same cannot be said for the women. The two W15 events did little to shake up the race as Kayla Cross continues to hold a commanding lead in the standings. Despite not playing in either <a href="https://www.tenniscanada.com/news/martin-wins-in-sherbrooke-canadians-shut-out-in-trois-rivieres/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Trois-Rivieres</a> or <a href="https://www.tenniscanada.com/news/lacasse-scores-doubles-title-at-itf-event-in-montreal/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Montreal</a>, the 19-year-old is in the pole position with one event to go, leading Rebecca Marino by 45 points. 
<figure style="margin-left:auto;margin-right:auto;text-align:center;"><img src="https://assets.nationalbankopen.com/production/news/_default/12275817/Screenshot-2025-03-18-155305.webp" alt="" /><figcaption style="text-align:center;">Photo : @kayla_tennis_1</figcaption></figure>
Only four women picked up points at the March ITF events: Ariana Arseneault (6), Clémence Mercier (3), Nadia Lagaev (1), and Raphaelle Lacasse (1). As a result of<a href="https://www.tenniscanada.com/news/lacasse-scores-doubles-title-at-itf-event-in-montreal/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> her semifinal run in Montreal</a>, Arseneault was able to climb past Cadence Brace into fourth in the standings but is still 65 points back of Cross.
The W75 event in Granby, QC, July 13-20, will be the last chance for anyone to catch Cross. With the points counting double in Granby, theoretically any player could still sneak up and catch the Londoner if they won the title, which is worth 150 points.
Read also: <a href="https://nationalbankopen.com/news/read/2025/q-a-nbo-montreal-tournament-director-valerie-tetreault-keys-halep-planning-12-day-format" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Q and A - NBO Montreal Tournament Director Valérie Tétreault on Keys, Halep, and Planning for a 12-Day Format</a>
Only six women can catch Cross without winning the title: Marino, Stacey Fung, Arseneault, Brace, Katherine Sebov, and Mia Kupres. Marino and Fung need to at least reach the semifinals, while the other four all have to reach the final to even have a chance of catching Cross.
But that is without taking Cross’ result into account, as she controls her own fate, as much as a tennis player can at least, heading into the final event. The 19-year-old <a href="https://www.tenniscanada.com/news/arseneault-kupres-reign-at-home-in-granby/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reached the Granby final last year</a> and would clinch the wildcard by winning the title. If she reaches the final again, only Marino could snatch it away by winning the title. If Cross gets to the semifinals, she would eliminate everyone except Marino, Fung, Arseneault and Brace. 
 
<a href="https://www.tenniscanada.com/pro-tennis/road-to-the-nbo/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CLICK HERE</a> for the latest standings in the Road to the NBO.
The ATP's best return to Toronto this summer for the National Bank Open presented by Rogers July 27 to Aug. 7, 2025 at Sobeys Stadium. 2025 Tickets are on sale. <a href="https://nationalbankopen.com/toronto/toronto-tickets-packages">Get your tickets today!</a>
The WTA's best return to Montreal this summer for the National Bank Open presented by Rogers July 26 to Aug. 7, 2025 at IGA Stadium. 2025 Tickets are on sale. <a href="https://nationalbankopen.com/montreal/montreal-tickets-packages">Get your tickets today!</a>
Feature Photo : Pascal Ratthe

Road to the NBO Update: Draxl, Cross Continue to Lead After March ITF Events

The rebrand includes a new logo and <a href="https://www.wtatennis.com/news/4224466/wta-unveils-bold-new-brand-identity-with-call-to-rally-the-world" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">a call to </a><a href="https://www.wtatennis.com/news/4224466/wta-unveils-bold-new-brand-identity-with-call-to-rally-the-world" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rally the World</a> meant to “captivate fans, forge new heroes, inspire generations and leave a legacy through the power of tennis.” Their marketing campaign tells the players’ stories in an authentic way and what motivates them to rally the world. One of the players prominently featured in the campaign is Canada’s own Gabriela Dabrowski. The doubles star, who recently revealed her inspiring breast cancer journey, is fittingly presented as not only <a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DGly_MPNO-b/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&amp;igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">a voice of resilience</a> but also a champion of women’s health, reinforcing the Tour’s commitment to have a positive impact beyond the sport and to be an advocate for women’s empowerment.
 “We’re putting our hearts on the line and our souls on the line, and I think it takes a lot of courage to do that week in and week out,” Dabrowski said in an <a href="https://www.tennis.com/baseline/articles/gabriela-dabrowski-perseverance-wta-rebrand-doubles-tennis-channel-2-second-serve" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">interview with Tennis Channel</a> during the BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells. “I think that the rebrand is going to capture a lot of these new stories being told. More players are being featured. Not just top singles players, but lower-ranked singles players and doubles players. It’s a more inclusive campaign, and so I’m really excited about the future of the WTA.”<figure><iframe width="500" height="281" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/kwSusQV21Uk" frameborder="0"></iframe></figure> The new brand identity comes in the midst of a remarkable women’s sports movement that has captured worldwide attention with professional leagues like the WNBA and the PWHL enjoying unprecedented growth and women athletes setting the bar higher than ever. The WTA is a significant part of the movement as well thanks to the global stage that women’s tennis occupies and the popularity of the players that wow fans on the court from tournament to tournament with their talent and charisma. Off the court, The WTA is home to 11 of the world’s 20 highest-earning female athletes <a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/brettknight/2024/12/18/the-worlds-highest-paid-female-athletes-2024/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">according to Forbes</a>. 
READ: <a href="https://nationalbankopen.com/news/read/2025/introducing-road-nbo-tennis-canada-award-wild-card-canadian-winner" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Introducing the Road to the NBO: Tennis Canada to Award Wild Card to Canadian Winner</a>
Recently, Tennis Canada published its <a href="https://www.tenniscanada.com/news/tennis-canada-and-national-bank-publish-game-set-equity-impact-report-two-years-into-long-term-gender-equity-strategy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Game. Set. Equity. Impact Report</a> that highlights the considerable progress that has been made in advancing gender equity in tennis across the country and having the opportunity to host the WTA’s biggest stars every year in our own backyard is a major catalyst for the impactful change that has been felt by women and girls in the sport and those who want to get involved.
Feature photo by: Gyles Dias/Tennis Canada

The WTA Ushers in a New Era with Powerful Rally the World Brand Identity

<h3>Andreeva keeps rolling</h3>
Teenage sensation Mirra Andreeva won her second-consecutive WTA 1000 title, defeating world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka 2-6, 6-4, 6-3 in Indian Wells.
Andreeva’s WTA rank leaps to a career-best No. 6 after winning back-to-back 1000 titles in Indian Wells and <a href="https://nationalbankopen.com/news/read/2025/this-week-tennis-andreeva-leaps-top-10-win-dubai" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">in Dubai last month</a>.
<figure style="margin-left:auto;margin-right:auto;text-align:center;"><img src="https://assets.nationalbankopen.com/production/news/_default/12275753/Screenshot-2025-03-17-104540.webp" alt="" /></figure>
 
The teen also defeated second-seed Iga Swiatek, Elina Svitolina, and Elena Rybakina en route to the title. She has now won five consecutive matches against Top 10 opponents and 12 straight overall.
The 17-year-old became the tournament’s youngest champion since Serena Williams in 1999. With her wins over No.1 Sabalenka and No. 2 Swiatek, Andreeva became the first woman under age 18 to beat the No. 1 and No. 2 at the same tournament since Williams defeated Lindsay Davenport and Martina Hingis at the 1999 U.S. Open.
Read Also: <a href="https://www.tenniscanada.com/news/alcaraz-beats-shapovalov-last-canadian-out-of-indian-wells/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Alcaraz Beats Shapovalov, Last Canadian Out of Indian Wells</a>
<h3>Draper wins first 1000 Title</h3>
Jack Draper cruised to a 6-2, 6-2 victory over Holger Rune to win the BNP Paribas Open on Sunday afternoon. 
Draper captured his first 1000-level title and reached the Top 10 of the ATP rankings for the first time in his career, rising from No. 14 to No. 7 with his win in Indian Wells.
Read also: <a href="https://nationalbankopen.com/news/read/2025/q-a-nbo-toronto-tournament-director-karl-hale-why-12-day-format-will-great-fans" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Q and A - NBO Toronto Tournament Director Karl Hale on Why the 12-Day Format Will be Great for Fans</a>
"I feel like I deserve it, in all honestly," Draper said of the milestone. "The amount of adversity I've been through, the amount of sacrifices, the amount of time that all the people around me have put into me and the hard work. It's an emotional feeling to know how much you've gone through and put in, and to be here now to say that I'm going be No. 7 in the world tomorrow, I can't tell you how much that means to me."
<figure style="margin-left:auto;margin-right:auto;text-align:center;"><img src="https://assets.nationalbankopen.com/production/news/_default/12275752/Screenshot-2025-03-17-104457.webp" alt="" /></figure>
 
Draper dominated on his serve, smashing 10 aces, and did not allow Rune to earn a single break point. The 23-year-old Brit defeated a strong field on his way to the final, winning matches over two-time defending champion Carlos Alcaraz, Ben Shelton, and Taylor Fritz,
It is the third career title for Draper, who won a pair of championships in Vienna and Stuttgart in 2024.
Read Also: <a href="https://www.tenniscanada.com/news/marino-stakusic-mboko-cross-and-arseneault-set-to-represent-team-canada-at-billie-jean-king-cup-qualifiers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Marino, Stakusic, Mboko, Cross, and Arseneault set to represent Team Canada at Billie Jean King Cup Qualifiers</a>
All winners from last week:
BNP Paribas Open - Indian Wells 1000
<ul><li>Men’s Singles: Jack Draper (1/3) d. Holger Rune</li><li>Women’s Singles: Mirra Andreeva (2/3) d. Aryna Sabalenka</li><li>Men’s Doubles: Mate Pavic/Marcelo Arevalo</li><li>Women’s Doubles: Demi Schuurs/Asia Muhammad</li></ul>
* 2025 Titles/Career Titles
<a href="https://www.tenniscanada.com/news/monday-digest-canadians-look-for-reset-in-miami/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Click here for more news about Canadian tennis players.</a>
The ATP's best return to Toronto this summer for the National Bank Open presented by Rogers July 27 to Aug. 7, 2025 at Sobeys Stadium. 2025 Tickets are on sale. <a href="https://nationalbankopen.com/toronto/toronto-tickets-packages">Get your tickets today!</a>
The WTA's best return to Montreal this summer for the National Bank Open presented by Rogers July 26 to Aug. 7, 2025 at IGA Stadium. 2025 Tickets are on sale. <a href="https://nationalbankopen.com/montreal/montreal-tickets-packages">Get your tickets today!</a>
Feature Photo : ATP Tour

This Week in Tennis: Draper, Andreeva Take Indian Wells

This year, the best men's tennis players are back in Toronto with the biggest field in tournament history. Hale breaks down the goings-on so far this year on the ATP Tour and explains why the expanded format will be a boon for tennis fans.
*The following interview has been edited purely for clarity and flow purposes.
<h3>Tennis Canada: What are your thoughts on the Australian Open and what you've seen so far this season on the ATP Tour?</h3>
Karl Hale: One of the things you see with the top players is that everybody was surprised that Novak Djokovic beat Carlos Alcaraz. Everybody thought that Carlos, especially after losing to him at the Olympics, would be really geared up and at the top of his game and Novak just neutralized him and beat him. So a lot of players are really, really surprised by that result. 
As far as Jannik Sinner, he is showing <a href="https://nationalbankopen.com/news/read/2025/this-week-tennis-keys-sinner-win-australian-open-singles-titles" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">absolute dominance above the field</a>. He's just at a level we haven't seen since those top guys dominated for the years they did. He has really taken the torch from the Big Three as the leader at this time and I think the players have a lot of work to do to catch up to him because he's just so far ahead as far as physicality, ball speed, his mental capacity, his shot selection. He's just really dominating everybody on all grounds. And he's got a great coach, Darren Cahill behind him. So great season to start off.
Read also: <a href="https://nationalbankopen.com/news/read/2025/this-week-tennis-auger-aliassime-wins-second-title-season" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Auger-Aliassime wins second title of the season</a>
And then obviously with our Canadians, it's amazing to see Denis not just <a href="https://www.tenniscanada.com/news/shapovalov-tops-ruud-and-is-crowned-dallas-open-champion/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">win a tournament</a> but to beat three Top 10 guys back-to-back-to-back which is where we all expected him to be years ago so it's good to see him turn it around. 
<figure><iframe width="500" height="281" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/XaLhCFpOH8s" frameborder="0"></iframe></figure>
And Felix is the same. They're finding their way back to that Top 10 level. I think over the next few months, we'll see them have more good results like that and the key is against the top players, can they compete with the top players which is what they are showing they can do.
<h3>Tennis Canada: What are you most looking forward to about the new 2025 format?</h3>
Karl Hale: It's a 96 draw so there's a lot more players, a lot more variety for our fans to see some of their favourites. We used to have a 56 draw so the added benefit is that you're going to see more of these up-and-comers who are ranked 70-80 in the world that are on their way to the top rankings. You're going to see some veterans that have dropped in the rankings that are still trying to get their way back up. You're going to see some really great early-round matches. I’m really looking forward to seeing more variety in our tournament.
<figure><iframe width="500" height="281" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/yNLmvxhN7ZA" frameborder="0"></iframe></figure>
Also one of the things that is really exciting is our format finishing on Thursday. We're only having night matches from Monday to Thursday so it will be a really great atmosphere for those nights.
Obviously, the Canadians are playing so well. We've always wanted a Canadian champion and this year looks like the year where the players are playing at a level where that is possible.
<h3>Tennis Canada: Who are some up-and-coming players who might be playing in Toronto that will be new to the tournament that fans should keep an eye on?</h3>
Karl Hale: Joao Fonseca just won the tournament in Argentina. Last year, he came on the radar, he won the NextGen Finals, and he's really stepping up as the next guy that looks like he can do something. He would be the one at this point that you can look out for.
<figure><iframe width="500" height="281" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/dW85cU6rbkw" frameborder="0"></iframe></figure>
<h3>Tennis Canada: How is the preparation going for the tournament this summer? Anything you can share with us?</h3>
Karl Hale: There are a lot of first-time things this year: the tournament starts on a Saturday for the first time and it’s a one-day qualifying, main draw starts on Sunday, finishing on night matches from Monday to Thursday.
Read also: <a href="https://nationalbankopen.com/news/read/2025/introducing-road-nbo-tennis-canada-award-wild-card-canadian-winner" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Introducing the Road to the NBO - Tennis Canada to Award Wild Card to Canadian Winner</a>
There's a lot of activations that we have coming that fans will learn about soon. On site at Sobeys Stadium, we will have Canadiana-themed areas that will act as cheering sections where our fans can cheer on our Canadian players.
<figure><iframe width="500" height="281" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/XRHHc9rmpPM" frameborder="0"></iframe></figure>
We're going to have great, great food and beverage areas, much improved this year. We've improved it a lot over the last four years and we're going to continue to improve. We have great prices in the food and beverage areas, the best in the sports business we feel.
Read also: <a href="https://nationalbankopen.com/news/read/2025/q-a-nbo-montreal-tournament-director-valerie-tetreault-keys-halep-planning-12-day-format" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Q and A - NBO Montreal Tournament Director Valérie Tétreault on Keys, Halep, and Planning for a 12-Day Format</a>
We want to be really good to our fans, to make them enjoy the experience at an affordable cost. We have really affordable tickets to reach out to all of our fans, especially in the early sessions. Those are good dates for fans that want to get affordable tickets to watch the top players.
We're going to see a lot of great results in the next four-five months and it will lead well into Toronto.
The ATP's best return to Toronto this summer for the National Bank Open presented by Rogers July 27 to Aug. 7, 2025 at Sobeys Stadium. 2025 Tickets are on sale. <a href="https://nationalbankopen.com/toronto/toronto-tickets-packages" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Get your tickets today!</a> 
Feature Photo: Tyler Anderson

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