Venus Williams, a two-time U.S. Open champion, experienced an unexpected and decisive defeat in the Grand Slam tournament’s first round. Facing off against qualifier Greet Minnen, Williams encountered a lopsided 6-1, 6-1 loss, marking her most uneven defeat in her 24 appearances at this prestigious event, as reported by Reuters.
In an impressive display of skill, the Belgian player Greet Minnen delivered 24 winners and masterfully saved all six break points presented to her, securing victory over the veteran American player. Minnen expressed her admiration for Williams, acknowledging the significant role Williams has played in the sport.
Minnen, a 26-year-old competitor, spoke of her reverence for Williams, highlighting the iconic player’s history in the tournament. “In 1997, Venus already played a final here and I was just born, so for me it was incredible to play a legend like her,” Minnen shared in an on-court interview. She continued, “I have huge respect for her.”
Williams, a former world number one and a seven-time Grand Slam winner, encountered her most promising opportunity for a comeback during the opening game of the second set when she faced a break point. However, she was unable to convert, and Minnen swiftly capitalized by breaking in the subsequent game, leading to her comfortable victory in a match that concluded in just 75 minutes.
Reflecting on the match, Williams acknowledged the skill of her opponent, expressing that Minnen made challenging shots appear effortless. Despite hitting impressive shots, Williams found herself repeatedly countered by Minnen’s winners and well-placed drop shots. Williams commented, “I don’t think I played badly. I think it was just one of those days where it’s just unlucky.”
As the younger sister of Serena Williams, who retired after last year’s U.S. Open with an astounding 23 major titles, Venus Williams remarked that she was mentally prepared to compete in this year’s Flushing Meadows tournament without her sibling’s participation.
