Former world No.1 Serena Williams has hit peak form at the US Open after producing a clinical 44-minute display during her quarter-final match on Tuesday.
The eighth seed eased to a dominating 6-1, 6-0, win over China’s Wang Qiang. Making it her most one-sided win in terms of games dropped since defeating Madison Brengle at the 2015 Madrid Open. Williams’ ruthless display saw her win 50 out of the 65 points played as she hit 25 winners compared to none from her opponent. Furthermore, she also dropped only two points behind her first serve and five points behind her second.
“This is what I’ve been training for. This is how hard I’ve been working. It feels like hard work pays off when that happens.” Said Williams.
“I’ve been working on my speed, getting shots. I didn’t give her too many chances in the match.” She added.
Tuesday’s win was Williams’ 100th at Flushing Meadows. Becoming only the second woman to do so after Chris Evert, who ended her career with 101 victories 30 years ago. She could break that record this year if she was to go on and win the title. Which would also place Williams on level footing with Margaret Court in terms of the most grand slam singles titles won at 24.
A lot has happened since Williams won her first US Open match against Nicole Pratt back in 1998. An encounter she can barely remember nowadays. Her resume currently stands at 72 WTA titles and she has spent 319 weeks as world No.1. The third longest period on the WTA Tour after Martina Mavratilova and Steffi Graf.
“I think the sport has come a really long way. It’s been really satisfying to see sport for women, the premier sport for women,” said Williams.
“It’s the best work in the world that a woman can do in my mind. I’m a little biased obviously.
“I feel like we fought so hard for so many years for so many different things. I feel like we still obviously have a ways to go, but a lot of that fighting through decades has come through.”
It is the fiery attitude of the 37-year-old that many know her for. Whether it is screams of ‘come on’ or cries of anger after hitting a bad shot. However, Williams insists that she is not increasing her intimidation factor in the tournament. Insisting that her approach to the major is that same as all the others.
“I don’t try to up any intimidation factor. I am who I am. I’ve always been the person that goes out there and roars and screams and complains and cries and fights.” She explained.
“I’m extremely passionate about what I do. Most people that love their jobs are passionate about what they do. That’s just me.”
Elina Svitolina stands in the way of Williams’ 101st win at the New York major. They will meet in the semi-finals on Friday. Svitoliva disposed of Johanna Konta 6-4, 6-4, in her quarter-final match. The two haven’t played each other since 2016 and Williams currently leads their head-to-head 4-1.
“It’s definitely it’s a big challenge to play against her.” Svitolina previewed.
“She has a big serve. That’s obvious to everyone. And that’s what I have to expect. I have to react quickly and try to take my chances when I have them.”
