Kalieva beats Mladenovic in three sets in US Open qualifying

Elvina Kalieva came through a swinging three-setter against Kristina Mladenovic, 6-2 1-6 6-1, to reach the final round of US Open qualifying. The American's serve was the difference at the edges: five aces to one, and 58.6% of her second-serve points won, against just 35.7% for Mladenovic. The Frenchwoman landed a far higher share of first serves, 76.3% to 58.6%, but won only 57.8% of those points, giving her little cushion once the rallies started. Both players hit two double faults. Kalieva's reward was a place one win from the main draw.