Belinda Bencic's dominance at the National Bank Open continues, as she breezed past Alexandra Eala in straight sets, securing her spot in the quarterfinals for the fourth time in Toronto. This victory marks Bencic's 18th win at the WTA 1000 event, solidifying her status as a force to be reckoned with on the hard courts.
What's particularly intriguing is Bencic's recent trend against left-handed players. This win marks her 10th consecutive victory over a lefty since 2024, a statistic that has left her surprised. "I feel like it can't be coincidental," she said. "I really hate playing lefties, but maybe my good timing helps me switch."
Bencic's success against left-handed opponents is all the more remarkable considering her personal preference. "It's just not comfortable," she explained. "The entire match feels uncomfortable, but I think my timing helps me adapt."
This win propels Bencic into the quarterfinals of a WTA 1000 event for the 13th time in her career, mirroring her performance in Miami earlier this season. However, her next challenge awaits in the form of Coco Gauff, who leads their head-to-head series 6-2. Gauff's recent dominance, including a 6-3, 6-1 victory over Alina Korneeva, has made her a formidable opponent.
Despite Gauff's lead in their head-to-head series, Bencic remains optimistic. "She's a great champion and tricky to play against," Bencic acknowledged. "I've come close so many times but lost in the third set. It's challenging, but I'm excited to try again."
The stage is set for an intriguing showdown between Bencic and Gauff, with the winner advancing to the semifinals. Bencic's recent form and her ability to adapt against left-handed players make her a strong contender, but Gauff's recent success and head-to-head advantage cannot be overlooked. The outcome of this match will undoubtedly shape the tournament's trajectory, leaving fans eagerly anticipating the clash of these two talented players.
