US OPEN 2015 – Britain’s Heather Watson who brought Serena Williams to the brink of defeat in the 3rd round at this year’s Wimbledon, was unable to find a similar level of play today against American Lauren Davis who she lost to (3)6-7 (0)6-7 on the opening day of the US Open.
Watson, girls’ junior champion here back in 2009, has yet to win a single main draw match in the women’s singles event. This year’s loss in the 1st round marks her 5th consecutive loss here making her 0-5 at the Open.
When posed the question as to why she is now struggling at the Open, Watson said, “I don’t know to be honest. I have had some close matches and it just hasn’t gone my way.”
On today’s match in particular, she added, “I found it quite hot today. I felt fine before the match … But maybe it was just a mix of tension and some long rallies mixed together … a bit of the stress and everything together” She admitted that despite being hydrated and fit coming into the match, she was experiencing cramping in both her hands and legs.
The British No. 1 spoke of her future plans. She is scheduled to play doubles and then head home to London if she loses early. However, she is looking forward to the Asian swing of the WTA Tour in the fall. “I’m going to do four weeks in Asia. So just keep fit and healthy and try and make the most of this Asia trip. I feel like I’ve got a lot to gain there. I didn’t do so well last year, so I’m not pretty much defending anything at all.” Watson is also thinking long term looking ahead to the Rio Olympic Games next year in Brazil, “I want to keep my ranking up, thinking ahead to the Olympics.”
