Venus Williams suffers profession’s worst defeat, will get knocked out of US Open

AFP

Venus Williams confronted a surprising elimination within the first spherical of the US Open as Belgian qualifier Greet Minnen beat her in straight units 6-1, 6-1.

This defeat marked a major milestone as probably the most lopsided loss in Williams’ intensive 100-match grand slam profession, a stark distinction to her earlier triumphs on the similar event in 2000 and 2001.

Despite the loss, followers gave Williams a heat send-off with a mixture of applause and enthusiastic cheers. As she made her manner in direction of the locker room, along with her pink racket bag slung over her left shoulder, Williams graciously acknowledged her supporters with a fast wave and a smile. 

Reflecting on the overwhelming help, Williams, who at the moment holds the title of the oldest participant within the event, expressed her gratitude, saying, “It was really great to hear the support. I know the fans have been here for me forever, so that’s fantastic to still have that support even more than ever. So it’s a beautiful thing, and I love the Open.”

Throughout her illustrious profession, Williams had been unstoppable within the first spherical of the US Open, boasting a powerful document of 21 consecutive victories. However, her latest efficiency indicated a shift in her fortunes, as this marked her third consecutive opening-round loss. The match showcased the outstanding talent of 26-year-old Minnen, who displayed jubilant celebration after securing the victory. Born in August 1997, Minnen’s victory over Williams held particular significance, having come into the world only a month previous to Williams’ preliminary look within the US Open closing.

Minnen, at the moment ranked 97th, entered the match with a profession document of 4-12 in Grand Slam matches. Expressing her awe at enjoying towards a tennis legend, Minnen mentioned, “For me, it was incredible to play a legend like her. I have huge respect. To be there at 43 years old, it’s amazing really.”

Despite Williams’ outstanding achievements, together with seven main championships with 5 victories at Wimbledon, her latest efficiency has been marked by disappointments. Notably, she has encountered early exits within the first or second rounds in her final 12 consecutive slam appearances. Her latest stumble got here on the All England Club in July, the place she exited after an unlucky fall throughout her opening match.