Hardcourt Season Begins

Iga first to arrive in Toronto for National Bank Open, aiming to bounce back. She defends 1550 points (most in top 10), including 1000 at Cincinnati. WTA Finals qualification requires closing 1530-point gap in Race. Ostapenko now a major threat with former coach Sierzputowski. Iga confirmed as returning finalist at US Open, a positive sign. She starts Toronto in second round (likely Aug 4/5).