National Bank Open Begins with Expanded Format and Key Matches

The National Bank Open presented by Rogers is set to commence its main-draw play on Sunday, continuing its expanded format for a second consecutive year.

This year's tournament features 96 players, an increase from 56, and will span 12 days instead of the usual seven. The men's matches will take place in Montreal, while the women's events are held in Toronto.

Among the notable participants, Venus Williams will face Kamilla Rakhimova in the opening match on Centre Court. Bianca Andreescu, who has struggled with injuries, will compete against Nikola Bartunkova in the evening match. Gabriel Diallo, needing a wild card to enter, will play against Kyrian Jacquet, aiming to improve his ranking after a challenging season.