Ageless Venus Williams In US Open Semis
.Defeats Kvitova 6-3 3-6 7-6(2)
Once again, ageless Venus Williams rolled back the years on Tuesday as she knocked out Czech Petra Kvitova 6-3 3-6 7-6(2) to set up US Open semi-final confrontation against compatriot Sloane Stephens.
Playing against an opponent, 10 years her junior, the 37-year-old ninth seeded Venus, blossomed under pressure in a nail-biting third set to remain on course for her first major title since she won Wimbledon in 2008.
Kvitova, who is returning to her best after a career-threatening injury side-lined her for five months, was up a break in the decider but allowed Williams back into the contest and the American was the more composed player in the tie-break.
Venus, who has already played two grand slam finals this year, told the 23,000 crowd on Arthur Ashe Stadium that, “I have to say I felt every single one of you guys behind me. That feels good and I did not want to let you guys down.”
The 2000 and 2001 US Open champion also had words of encouragement for her 13th seeded opponent, who was stabbed in her left hand by an intruder at her home last December. “Everything she’s gone through … It’s unbelievable. It’s wonderful to see her back and play amazing. I‘m so fortunate to have won that match.”
Interestingly, Williams and Stephens, who is 24 years old, could be joined in the last four by fellow Americans, Coco Vandeweghe and Madison Keys, both scheduled to play on Wednesday. – Reuters
