From tears to cake: What players are saying at the Cincinnati Open

By Lisa Kruse

Players’ successes and celebrations are top of mind in Cincinnati as first round action filled the day on Tuesday. In between tight matches, packed practices and fan-filled autograph sessions, players are talking. Here’s a look at what’s been said in Cincy.

“It was happy tears for a happy week. I’m happy to be here and come off of a great week.”

– Jessica Pegula, reflecting on her emotional interview after titling in Toronto last week

“Almost every match [I’ve played here] was a high-level match and really tough. I remember playing against [Shelby] Rogers. It was a really tough battle. I also remember playing against Paula [Badosa]. And the match against [Madison] Keys was really impressive. I was really impressed by her forehand. I have a lot of great memories here. I can’t wait to start playing.”
– Aryana Sabalenka, reflecting on her play in Cincinnati

“I thought I was really clutch in the big moments. I’m happy to be moving on.”

– Ben Shelton, after his win over Reilly Opelka on Tuesday

“It’s really good!”
– Stefanos Tsitsipas, after biting into a birthday cake celebrating his special day on Monday

“I celebrate with the team at a good restaurant in Paris. The only thing missing was celebrating with my family (who stayed in China). The first three days [after I won], I wake up and think…wow that’s amazing, I don’t know how I make it. But I come back to reality.”
– Zheng Qinwen, reflecting on her experience after winning Olympic gold

As the tournament heats up, stay tuned to find out what players are saying as we continue our “Said in Cincy” series.