Bouchard has ‘out of body experience’ at Rio

Rio de Janeiro (AFP) – Canadian tennis poster girl Eugenie Bouchard said the spectacular opening ceremony at the Rio Olympics had caused her to have “an out of body experience” which helped her into the second round on Saturday.

The 22-year-old, playing at her first Games, brushed aside America’s Sloane Stephens 6-3, 6-3 on a packed Court Three.

She could face second seeded Australian Open champion Angelique Kerber in the next round.

Bouchard said Friday’s ceremony at the city’s famed Maracana was something she’ll remember for the rest of her life.

“I’m a little tired now but it was something I couldn’t miss. It was such a special moment that I will remember for the rest of my life. It motivated me tonight,” she said.

“Entering the stadium, with all the people waving and smiling, I had this out of body experience knowing I will remember this forever. I’m on a cloud right now.”