As she prepares to make her twelfth career appearance at the National Bank Cup presented by Mazda next week, Aleksandra Wozniak has a lot of good stories to tell about her years playing in Quebec City.
The former world no. 21 made her tournament debut in 2001 at just 13 years of age. She played and won the pre-qualifying tournament to earn a qualifying wildcard. In the qualies, Wozniak won two more matches in straight sets. She ultimately lost in the first round to fourth-seeded American Abigail Spears, but still came away with her first professional ranking points. Not long after, Wozniak won her first pro title at the Lachine Challenger as a 14-year-old and was on her way to living out her dream as a professional tennis player.
Wozniak’s best performance in Quebec City came at the height of her career in 2008 and 2009 when she reached the semifinals two consecutive years.
“The tournament team is really like a family and they always welcome all of the players with open arms,” Wozniak said. “I also love the city of Quebec, it has a lot of character and it’s so beautiful in the fall when we get to visit. It motivates me to give that big final push, it’s a nice way to finish the season.”
Spending the past year working her way back from shoulder surgery, Wozniak has had the opportunity to contest events in her home province more than usual and she’s loving it.
“If you have the chance to play at home, it’s important to give back to the people who helped you along the way,” Wozniak reflected. “I’ve been able to discover new cities like Gatineau, Granby, and Saguenay which has been great. These tournaments are important for the growth of tennis in Canada and I am happy that I can still be a part of that.”
Surely the fans in Quebec City will be just as happy to see one of their favourites once again starting in a few days.