Williams Expresses Pride and Gratitude After U.S. Open Loss

NEW YORK: In a captivating first-round match at Arthur Ashe Stadium, Venus Williams battled against 10th seed Karolina Muchova, ultimately succumbing 6-3, 2-6, 6-1 at the U.S. Open on Monday.

Williams captivated the audience with her signature net skills and powerful groundstrokes during her record-extending 25th main-draw appearance at the tournament.

The two-time US Open champion (2000, 2001), who received a wildcard for entry, participated in the competition ranked 582nd globally.

After the match, Williams stated that she felt proud despite the defeat and appreciative of the crowd’s unwavering encouragement.

“Although I didn’t secure a win today, I am very pleased with my performance,” she commented. “I’m not sure I’ve ever experienced such strong crowd support; they were with me on every point, regardless of the score.”

Muchova, a semifinalist in New York for the previous two years, secured the first set with a pair of significant breaks. Williams retaliated in the second, clinching it on her third set point via aggressive play and double breaks.

However, her vigor diminished in the final set, enabling Muchova to regain command and dominate the set in just over two hours.

Despite the loss, Williams demonstrated the resilience that has established her as one of tennis’s most enduring figures.

Muchova lauded the atmosphere and her esteemed rival.

“I felt the pressure. The atmosphere was incredible. She is truly a legend, and it was an honor to share the court with her. Her performance was outstanding. Her passion for the sport and enjoyment of playing are evident, and it’s inspiring to witness,” Muchova stated.