Serena Williams may refer to it as “evolving” or “retiring” if she so chooses. She can be coy regarding whether or not this U.S. Open will mark the end of her career. These 23 Grand Slam titles have earned this privilege.
Who knows how long this farewell will last if she keeps playing in this manner.
Regardless of what occurs once her trip to Flushing Meadows concludes, the following must be known after Wednesday night: The 40-year-old Williams is still alive, she’s still capable of playing great tennis, she’s still winning, and she’s eager for more, just like the adoring fans whose cheers once again filled Arthur Ashe Stadium.
Williams defeated No. 2 seed Anett Kontaveit 7-6 (4), 2-6, 6-2 in the second round of the U.S. Open to assure that she will play at least one more singles match in what she has intimated will be the final tournament of her distinguished career.
During her on-court interview, Williams said with a smile, “I still have a little left in the tank.”
“This is my specialty,” she continued. I enjoy a challenge, and I am rising to the occasion.
Serena Williams reacts to a call against Anett Kontaveit during their second round women’s singles match on day three of the 2022 US Open at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in New York City on August 31, 2022. Getty Pictures
Oh, is she a beauty! After defeating the 80th-ranked Danka Kovinic in straight sets on Monday and earning her 23rd victory in her last 25 matches against a player ranked No. 1 or No. 2 on Wednesday against Anett Kontaveit, the six-time champion at Flushing Meadows will compete for a spot in the fourth round on Friday. Her opponent will be Australian Ajla Tomljanovic, age 29.
Williams responded with a hearty laugh when asked how she’s doing so far: “Well, I’m a pretty good player.”
She served at speeds of up to 119 miles per hour, stayed with Kontaveit during lengthy exchanges of big swings from the baselines, and summoned some of her signature brilliance when it mattered most.
Williams went to the locker room for a short break prior to the third set after winning a close first set and then stumbling in the second.
Someone had to blink; something had to give.
When play restarted, Williams improved her performance and emerged as the superior player.
As she has done numerous times, on numerous platforms, with so much at stake.
“I’m just Serena. After losing the second set, I felt, “Oh my goodness, I had better give my all because this may be it.”” Williams stated, reflecting the sentiments of every person who was paying attentively.
“I’m really competitive. In all honesty, I only saw it as a benefit. I have nothing to demonstrate “She stated, which is undoubtedly accurate. “I haven’t had the opportunity to play like this since 1998. Since 1999, I’ve literally had a ‘X’ on my back “17 years old when she won her first Grand Slam title at the U.S. Open.
Williams was sidelined for roughly a year before returning to the tour at Wimbledon in late June. She lost in the first round and was 1-3 entering the U.S. Open this week, where she is 2-0.
Williams must also compete in doubles. She and her sister, Venus, have won fourteen major championships as a team and will begin Thursday night’s competition.
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