"At least I hit cool shots" - Bianca Andreescu looks back on birthday defeat at Libema Open; gives glimpse of celebration with family despite loss

Bianca Andreescu celebrated her 24th birthday on Sunday, June 16. The same day, she clashed with Liudmila Samsonova for the title at the Libema Open.

Andreescu started strong by winning the first set. However, Samsonova came from behind and took the second set. In the decider, Samsonova dug her heels in, winning the tie-breaker to close the match 4-6, 6-3, 7-5 in her favor.

The Canadian took to X to share her experience of battling it against Samsonova in the 2024 Libema Open finals. She posted a picture of herself shrugging on-court and joked about not catching a break on her birthday.

"My reaction when I can’t get a dub on my bday again. At least I hit some cool shots and enjoyed myself in other ways lol on a real note tho super happy with my performances considering it was only my second tourney back! Thank you for all the nice messages! onwards n upwards :)" Andreescu wrote.

The former World No. 4 who has returned to the WTA Tour this season after battling injuries remained upbeat about her performance. She posted a clip each of her and her opponent's winning shots.

Andreescu also shared a clip where she is seen sitting down with her family and raising a glass while they wish her a happy birthday.

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Bianca Andreescu back in Top 200 with Libema Open 2024 runner-up finish

Bianca Andreescu played her first final in two years at the 2024 Libema Open. After an injury-ridden 2023 season, the Canadian is back on tour after a 10 month hiatus.

Bianmca Andreesu at the 2024 French Open - Getty Images

Andreescu defeated Eva Vedder and Yue Yuan in the opening and second rounds of the tournament, respectively. She then ousted Naomi Osaka in the quarterfinals and Dalma Galfi in the semifinals before falling to Liudmila Samsonova in the summit clash.

Despite the loss, Andreescu gained 65 spots to become World No. 163 as per the WTA rankings. WTA's official channel on X acknowledged the 2019 US Open champion's efforts and posted:

"Bibi on the come-up. A run to the 's-Hertogenbosch final propels @Bandreescu_ back up the PIF WTA Rankings!"

In a post-match interview, Bianca Andreescu exhuded confidence as she reflected on her performance.

"It's upsetting, but I know there are good things coming for me," Andreescu said. "For me, this is definitely a step forward. I've been through a lot for quite some time, especially the last 10 months."

Her proficiency on grass at the Libema Open is likely to serve as a good build up for the Wimbledon Championships scheduled from July 1 to 14.