Halep's route to the title

2R: Simona Halep d. Taylor Townsend 6-3 6-1

Against another American in the second round, Halep brushed aside the challenge of Taylor Townsend with a solid straight-sets win. “It was really tough even if the score looks pretty easy,” she said. “Her balls were really tough to return, because of the topspin and the forehand, it's really, really hard. She’s a lefty, as well. So I couldn't return my best way. She was defending my short cross with the backhand so well. She mixes everything well, and it's really tough to find a rhythm. I just tried to stay focused.”