NEW YORK (US) – In the first round of the US Open on Tuesday, Serena Williams pushed herself to a record-smashing straight-sets win although there were no fans to cheer her.
Serena, who is a six-time champion did not need rooting fans to provide a lift during her 7-5 6-4 victory of Kristie Ahn, who is ranked 96th, at the Arthur Ashe Stadium.
“I think the hardest is making sure you stay pumped,” said Serena when asked about the absence of fans. “For me it was clearly easy because I’m always overly passionate.
“I love being passionate. It’s what I’m best at.”
Players will have to adjust to playing in the empty arena in the wake of the pandemic crisis. Earlier, during US Open matches, fatigues players used to be recharged by the boisterous cheers of fans on the stands.
Serena began her US Open with a win, as in 19 others, and improved her first round match record to 20-0.
(Photos syndicated via Reuters)
This story has been edited by BH staff and is published from a syndicated field.
