Venus Williams was eliminated from the first round of the US Open on Monday after losing to fellow American Sofia Kenin in straight sets. This marks an early exit for the veteran tennis player, who has had a storied career in the sport.
The 46-year-old Williams — handed a wild card into the singles in New York some 29 years after reaching the final at Flushing Meadows as a teenager in 1997 — exited 6-2, 7-6 (8/6).
Kenin appeared to be cruising to a straightforward win after racing through the opening set and then taking a 4-2 lead in the second. The 27-year-old American had a break point for what would have been a 5-2 lead but was then rocked by a ferocious fightback from Williams, who recovered to force a tie-break to the delight of the late-night crowd. An improbable comeback appeared to be beckoning when Williams sprinted into a 6-2 lead in the tie-break, but Kenin regrouped impressively to rattle off six straight points to clinch victory. Her last victory in a Grand Slam singles game came at Wimbledon in 2021, where she reached the second round.
Williams, who saluted fans as she left the court, has given no indication of when she plans to call time on her singles career. She will extend her US Open campaign when she plays in the women’s doubles alongside sister Serena later in the tournament.
Williams and Kenin’s match got under way just after midnight local time following Novak Djokovic’s marathon five-set loss earlier in the night session. Since then Williams has made six Grand Slam singles appearances and exited in the first round on each occasion.
Williams Battles Late into the Night at Arthur Ashe Stadium
Serena Williams concluded her match at Arthur Ashe Stadium just after 2am local time, showcasing a determined performance despite the late hour. Her efforts were commendable, as she fought hard throughout the contest, leaving the court with her head held high.
