US Open: Serena Williams puts retirement party on hold, reaches third round after beating Kontaveit
- Williams beats world No 2 in three sets in front of partisan crowd at Arthur Ashe Stadium
- ‘I’m just looking at it as a bonus, I don’t have anything to prove,’ Williams says
Serena Williams dramatically extended her iconic career with a never-say-die, three-set victory over world No 2 Anett Kontaveit at the US Open.
The 40-year-old, 23-time grand slam title winner triumphed 7-6, 2-6, 6-2 in front of a raucous, partisan Arthur Ashe Stadium crowd to reach the third round of a tournament she has won six times.
Having declared that she was already “evolving away from tennis” after a 27-year career, Williams’ force of will ensured that the retirement party was put on hold for a little longer.
“There’s no rush,” said Serena on court when reminded that she had declared herself to be in the closing stages of her career.
“There’s still a little left in me so we’ll see. I’m a pretty good player. I love a challenge.”
“I’m just Serena, you know. Honestly after I lost the second set I thought ‘oh my goodness, I’ve got to give my best effort because this could be it’.
“I’m just looking at it as a bonus. I don’t have anything to prove. I have absolutely nothing to lose. I’ve had an ‘X’ on my back since 1999.”