The Falaise must bow to American Claire Liu in two sets in her home field show at Roland Garros.
Ylena In-Albon (WTA 149) has to wait for her first win in the main draw of a major tournament. After the 24-year-old lost in two sets in her Grand Slam debut to Alison Riske at Wimbledon last year, the American’s first-round exit at the French Open also meant the end of the streak.
The Swiss lost to Claire Leo (WTA 102), who was one year younger than her, after 1:12 hours 1:6, 4:6. Previously, In-Albon had successfully played through the qualifiers at Porte d’Auteuil with three victories. With Gilles Teichmann, Belinda Bencic and En-Albon out, Simona Walter is the only Swiss player left on the board.
The gift break gives some momentum
In-Albon passed the first round almost completely. Valezzi trailed 0:4 and managed to win only one match in the first set.
The second round also took a similar course, and once again the Swiss trailed quickly 0:3 with a double break. As a result, In-Albon got her first break opportunity – and was able to use it with the gentle help of her opponent. Leo playing the ball into the net is not very difficult.
The unexpected surge in service to 1:3 gave the Valais woman a huge boost. Not only did she confirm the break, but she added another to make it 3:3. Despite the mediocre sprint, the game ended quickly. Leo turned it around again at the right moment and ended the match after another break with a game to serve.
But for In-Albon, the detour to Paris was worth it. Thanks to advancing in the main draw, Valaisan earned nearly €70,000 in prize money.
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