Loss to Anisimova – Australian Open come to an abrupt end for ailing Bencic – Sport

• Belinda Bencic (WTA 22) is defeated in the 2nd round of the Australian Open by Amanda Anisimova (USA/WTA 60) 2: 6, 5: 7.
• The ailing Swiss player has to be treated by the physiotherapist on her back in the second set.
• After Jil Teichmann’s clear defeat by Victoria Asarenka, all Swiss players in Melbourne were eliminated.

The Australian Open is not a good place for Belinda Bencic. The 24-year-old from eastern Switzerland has never made it past the round of 16 in Melbourne – that shouldn’t change at this year’s event either.

In the second round, Bencic had no chance against the 20-year-old American Amanda Anisimova and lost 6-2 and 6-2 in an hour and a half. The Olympic champion was obviously struggling with lower back problems and needed treatment.

Bencic disappears into the dressing room – the effect doesn’t last long

Bencic had made an optimal start against the 2019 round of 16 and took the serve from her opponent to zero. But then the thread broke. Bencic immediately conceded the rebreak and from the 2: 2 onwards could no longer win the game. The eastern Swiss then left the square to collect herself.

And the desired effect was not lacking. A 7-minute game to 1:1, in which Bencic had to fend off 3 breakballs, brought about the turning point. At least temporarily: Bencic made the service breakthrough to make it 3: 2, but Anisimova was able to counter with the prompt rebreak again.

Don’t give up and try everything

But the physical problems did not decrease. Bencic tried everything and was treated by the physiotherapist on the pitch during the medical timeout. The 24-year-old kept fighting and was able to save herself in the extension of the 2nd set.

But at some point the last strength dwindled. Anisimova, who convinced with a strong service and good returns, remained unchallenged, especially on her own serve. With the 5th break to 7: 5, the 20-year-old made the victory perfect.