NEW YORK, (Reuters) – Caroline Wozniacki won the battle of U.S. Open comeback queens by rallying to beat Jennifer Brady 4-6 6-3 6-1 yesterday and move into the fourth round at the season’s final Grand Slam.
Wozniacki and Brady have been the feel-good stories at Flushing Meadows and their storylines converged on a sun-kissed Arthur Ashe Stadium court with the 33-year-old Dane continuing her dazzling return by reaching the last 16.
It seemed improbable just weeks ago that ex-world number one Wozniacki, back playing competitive tennis’s after a three-year break to raise a family, and Brady, rising star and Australian Open finalist in 2021 but sidelined for two years with knee and foot injuries, would face each other at a major.
But 28-year-old Brady, just four tournaments into her comeback, and Wozniacki, playing in her third, looked as if they had never been away by treating fans to some quality tennis that at times had the crowd on their feet.
However it was Wozniacki, twice a U.S. Open finalist, who showed more fitness and a little less competitive rust, winning 11 of 12 games after dropping the opening set.
“I guess I always had the belief in myself,” said Wozniacki. “It takes a little time just to get back into the match rhythm. I felt like I had a great rhythm. I was working on my fitness to get back into good shape.
