Bianca Andreescu delivered a statement performance in Roland Garros qualifying, obliterating American opponent Quinn 6-0, 6-0 in just 45 minutes—a “double bagel” that signaled her resurgence. But behind the on-court dominance lies a deeply personal journey: the Canadian star’s decision to quit alcohol, inspired by an interview with the late NBA legend Kobe Bryant. Here’s how Bryant’s words reignited Andreescu’s fire and propelled her toward a potential French Open redemption.
“Double Bagel” Dominance: Andreescu Crushes Quinn in Qualifying
The 23-year-old Andreescu, once ranked No. 4 but now clawing her way back from injuries and setbacks, needed only 45 minutes to dismantle Quinn in Paris:
- Stats: 6-0, 6-0; won 84% of first-serve points and converted 6/9 break points.
- Aggressive Play: Unleashed 22 winners, including a signature backhand down the line that left Quinn scrambling.
- Mindset: “I wanted to make a statement,” Andreescu told Sportsnet. “Every match matters right now.”
Next, she faces controversial Aussie Bernard Tomic in the final qualifying round—a clash dripping with subtext, as Tomic once dismissed her as a “future No. 1” during her 2019 US Open title run.
Kobe Bryant’s Legacy: The Interview That Changed Andreescu’s Life
In a revealing Athlon Sports interview, Andreescu shared how a 2020 YouTube deep dive into Kobe Bryant’s mindset reshaped her approach to alcohol and adversity.
- The Epiphany: Watching Bryant discuss his “Mamba Mentality,” Andreescu realized her partying habits conflicted with her ambitions. “I was like, ‘What am I doing?’” she admitted. “Kobe’s discipline hit me hard.”
- Sobriety Journey: She quit alcohol in 2023, crediting Bryant’s focus on “obsessive preparation” for her renewed dedication.
- Career Impact: Since sobriety, Andreescu has climbed from No. 352 to No. 121, winning two ITF titles and now eyeing a Roland Garros main-draw return.
“Kobe’s message was about sacrificing short-term pleasures for greatness,” she said. “I needed that wake-up call.”
Bernard Tomic Next: Redemption Arc Continues
Andreescu’s final qualifying hurdle is Bernard Tomic, the polarizing Aussie whose career has been marred by tanking accusations and reality TV stints.
- History: Tomic once sarcastically praised Andreescu as a “future No. 1” during her 2019 rise—a jab she’s since used as fuel.
- Tomic’s Form: The 31-year-old, ranked No. 289, is battling his own comeback, winning two Challenger titles this year.
- Stakes: A win would send Andreescu to her first French Open main draw since 2022, a critical step in rebuilding her ranking.
“Bernard’s comments used to bother me,” Andreescu said. “Now? It’s just motivation.”
The Bigger Picture: Andreescu’s Path Back to the Top
Andreescu’s Roland Garros surge is part of a broader resurgence:
- Health: After years of knee and back injuries, she’s played 12 consecutive weeks without issue.
- Coaching: Reunited with childhood mentor Alyssa Hibberd, focusing on clay-court adaptability.
- Mental Growth: Embracing meditation and journaling, tools she says keep her “present” during matches.
“I’m hungrier now,” Andreescu said. “I know what it takes to win Slams, and I’m not done yet.”
What’s Next?
If Andreescu qualifies, she’ll join Leylah Fernandez in the main draw, reigniting hopes for a Canadian deep run. A potential first-round matchup with 2023 finalist Karolina Muchova looms, but Andreescu remains undaunted: “Pressure is a privilege.”
Final Thoughts
Bianca Andreescu’s “double bagel” win and candid sobriety revelation underscore a player reborn. With Kobe Bryant’s wisdom in her ear and a chip on her shoulder, the 2019 US Open champion is poised to remind tennis why she was once the sport’s brightest phenom.
Can Andreescu conquer Tomic and storm the French Open main draw? Share your predictions below!
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Meta Description: Bianca Andreescu’s 6-0, 6-0 Roland Garros win and Kobe Bryant-inspired sobriety journey fuel her comeback. Preview her clash with Bernard Tomic and revival here.
