Shymanovich edges Masarova in three sets in US Open qualifying

Iryna Shymanovich came through a three-set battle at US Open qualifying, beating Rebeka Masarova 6-4 3-6 6-4 to reach the final round of the draw. The Belarusian never hit an ace and landed only 56.3 percent of her first serves, yet she won 67.3 percent of those points and, crucially, 52.6 percent behind her second delivery. Masarova had the bigger weapon, striking 11 aces and taking 73.2 percent of her first-serve points, but nine double faults and a return of just 38.9 percent on second serve undid her. The margins on the second ball decided it.