Venus Williams suggests not having Serena Williams by her side during this year's US Open wasn't something that was causing her any particular difficulties because she was prepared for this day. Last year, Serena retired from pro tennis after the US Open but Venus kept going. For two and a half decades, the Williams sisters were arriving together in New York and competing at the US Open. But this year brought something different as only Venus came to New York for the US Open, while Serena stayed at home. On Tuesday, Venus exited the US Open in the first round after suffering a 1-6 1-6 loss to Greetje Minnen.
Venus Williams on being at the US Open without Serena"I mean, I was very much aware that Serena wouldn't be playing the tournament, so I think I was okay. I've had a chance to get used to that idea even before she retired. I kind of knew that was coming. Yeah, I think you should always go for your dreams. For me, I haven't had a lot of chances to play this year or last year. I think the key for me is to just stay healthy and gain some momentum. I mean, that's the key for any athlete," Venus said.
Venus Williams and Serena Williams© Getty Images Sport - Jamie SquireVenus, who suffered a knee injury just before the US Open, said after the loss to Minnen that her preparation for the US Open wasn't ideal. But also, Williams highlighted that Minnen delivered a great performance and gave the full credit to the Belgian. "I mean, I think first I have to give credit to my opponent. I mean, there wasn't a shot she couldn't make. Even when I hit really amazing shots, she just hit a winner or a dropshot, so... I don't think I played badly. I think it was just one of those days where it's just unlucky," Venus said.
from Tennis World USA https://ift.tt/GCyxjnS
Tennis