Five takeaways from Rogers' title win in Midland

MIDLAND, Mich.—Though the Dow Tennis Classic did not end with a singles final, the week saw Americans leave big impressions in front of huge local crowds. Here's a look at five takeaways from the W100 ITF. (All photos by Adam Ferman.)

1

Unexpected Finale

On Sunday, Anhelina Kalinina was forced to withdraw from the final against Shelby Rogers with a right toe injury. Kalinina was having the week of her life, reaching her biggest career final. The world No. 159 has won all of her eight of her 10 ITF titles in the United States, and was grateful to the USTA for giving her so many opportunities.

2

Milestone Trophy

Rogers came through the W100 ITF without the loss of a set. The 27-year-old leaves Michigan with a check for $15,239 and will jump more than 20 spots in the rankings as she closes in on a return to the Top 100. It's the second title of her comeback as she nears the one-year anniversary of her return to the tour from knee surgery.

3

Saving the Show

Former world No. 12 Yanina Wickmayer stepped in for an exhibition match after Kalinina announced her injury news. Wickmayer pushed newly crowned champion Rogers in two tight sets and even had a couple of laughs along the way. She and her partner Valeria Savinykh competed in the doubles final the day prior.

4

American Sweep

Top seeds Maria Sanchez and Caroline Dolehide won the doubles crown over Wickmayer and Savinykh for their first trophy together. The Americans now head to Kentucky for the W100, but somehow aren't sure if they'll team up again despite their very, very successful week.

5

On the Rise

Irina Falconi lost the first set in all three of her wins in Midland. She would fall to Rogers, but will see her ranking rise 70 spots. Three out of four semifinalists were American, with Jamie Loeb also making a run to the final four (and the semifinals of doubles with compatriot Ingrid Neel). She will jump 50 places to inside the Top 300.