CARLSBAD, Ca. - Singles qualifying at the Carlsbad Classic wrapped up on Monday with Canadians Sharon Fichman and Francoise Abanda advancing into the main draw.

Fichman found success over American Tori Kinard in a three-set battle, 4-6, 6-1, 6-2. Next up for her is Russian opponent Marina Melnikova. Back on Center Court, Abanda extended her straight-sets winning streak by taking out qualifier Vania King, 6-4, 6-4.

Her next opponent was American Zoe Gwen Scandalis. On Tuesday, Abanda also made quick work of Scandalis, winning 6-1, 6-1. We will find out on Wednesday if Fichman will join her in the second round. Canadian tennis appears to be doing something right. Remember these names.

Monday also saw the departure of Russian Alla Kudryavtseva, due to a WTA disqualification for less than ideal sportsmanship during her match against American Nicole Gibbs. This action left a hole in the doubles draw, where Alla was paired up with American Vania King. On Monday night, the doubles draw showed a placeholder as Alternate/Alternate. This was an unfortunate blow for King, who is now out of the tournament. The doubles alternate team is South American pair Gabriela Ce (Brazil) & Veronica Cepede Royg (Paraguay).

On Tuesday, top seed Yanina Wickmayer headlined Center Court by taking on American Julia Boserup. The first set went to a tiebreak, but Wickmayer tightened her grip in set two and won the match 7-6, 6-3. She holds the 2010 Wimbledon and US Open doubles titles with her partner Yaroslava Shvedova.

American Cici Bellis followed Yanina on Center Court against Julia Glushko of Israel. Bellis came through in straight sets 6-3, 6-4. Carlsbad local Brett Berger also
made her Center Court debut, but it was not her day. Brett lost to Maria Sakkari of Greece 6-0, 6-0.

Tournament Notes

This year, match play is only during day sessions. Most sessions begin at 10 AM, except for the weekend. Semis begin at noon Saturday, while the Sunday final begins at 1 PM.

Tuesday was Military Appreciation Day with free admission to people presenting a military ID. This acknowledgement aligns with the event charity, Warrior Foundation-Freedom Station.

General admission tickets are perfect for families. The courts are set up such that viewing without a seat is awesome. General admission is a great choice for the little ones who may not be ready to sit still, and the price is family friendly at $15.00 per ticket.

Wednesday, November 25th is Kids Day with free admission for kids under 14. The offer is a first come, first serve until capacity is reached. Please extend courtesy to players, especially on Court 1. This show court is located at the end of the row of practice courts. As you approach, keep in mind that you are entering a “Quiet Zone.”

The Carlsbad forecast promises pleasant, partly sunny days for the remainder of the event. Six Americans are left in the singles draw, and American Nicole Gibbs and British partner Naomi Broady remain in the doubles mix. So there will be plenty of chances to come out and root for the home team throughout the week.