On way to retirement, Williams beats Kovinic in US Open
by Oviri Kelvin, Sports Editor, Abuja
23-time Grand Slam champion Serena Williams has started the journey to her 24th Grand Slam title on a remarkable note by dislodging Montenegrin Danka Kovinic in the first round of the US Open.
Williams, who turns 41 soon, saw off Kovinic 6-3, 6-3 in the 25,000 capacity Arthur Ashe Stadium.
Recall that the former world number one is close to taking a bow from the profession and would love to equal the all-time record of Margaret Court.
With the stadium almost filled to capacity, William with six US Open titles to her name was cheered and hailed by her fans as she dished out powerful strokes to send the Montenegrin out of the competition.
After the action, Williams revealed that it would be hard to leave a sport that gives her much satisfaction though there comes a time when one embraces new challenges.
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According to her, the feeling that comes with the game is appealing knowing fully well it creates an environment where one inarguably fits in perfectly.
“It’s extremely difficult still because I absolutely love being out there,” Williams said.
“The more tournaments I play, I feel like the more I can belong out there.
“That’s a tough feeling to have, and to leave knowing the more you do it, the more you can shine.
“But it’s time for me, you know, to evolve to the next thing. I think it’s important because there are so many other things that I want to do,” the former world number one added.
Williams, after her victory, will play Estonian Anett Kontaveit in the second round at the Arthur Ashe Stadium on Wednesday.
Moreover, the player, also in the doubles event, paired with her sister Venus Williams against Czechs, Linda Nosková and Lucie Hradecká in the first round.
