With the end of her illustrious career approaching rapidly, Serena Williams lost to Emma Raducanu 6-4 6-0 in the first round of the Western & Southern Open in Cincinnati.
It was a highly-anticipated clash between the American legend and young British US Open champion who carries the weight of big expectations. Williams had already won 18 titles, including four majors, and held the world No.1 ranking for 18 weeks when Raducanu
was born in late 2002.
Williams struggled early in her first encounter with Raducanu, trailing 4-1, and even though she managed to win three of the next four games, the tenth-seeded teenager won the first set and absolutely dominated the second set to clinch victory in 65 minutes.
Williams is the only woman to win back-to-back titles at the Western & Southern Open in the Open Era, triumphing in 2014 and 2015.
With every Williams loss, the tension gets higher and emotions intensify as her retirement gets closer. The 40-year-old seemed to avoid the on-court interview in Cincinnati, as she quickly packed her stuff and rushed to leave, although she did wave and smile to the supportive, near-capacity crowd. The US Open is expected to be Williams’ last tournament. (photos: Jimmie48)
I just realize something, Serena is wearing the same shades of color as Rafael Nadal for their Nike outfit.
They often share the same color in every season: 2022, 2019, 2018 US open series, 2013 AO.
Serena was thrashed by Emma who is 19 years old, the same thrashing Emma would have received
if she had played Serena when Serena was 19 years of age.
Best wishes to Serena and her family, we will miss her. Good luck to Emma as she continues
to compete for titles.
It is great to see Serena move on. She still looks disappointed when she loses.. Tennis is a game you either
win or lose.. Very seldom you see her smile after a loss.. She should be glad she is able to play @ the level
she plays at & smile whether it is a loss or a win (DUH)… Also when shaking hands with her opponents
it shows all over her face.. Now she can relax & smile @ home…. Enjoy the moment…