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Greet Winnen after her victory against tennis legend Venus Williams in the first round of the US Open. — © Getty Images via AFP
Belgian tennis player Greet Minnen beat Venus Williams at the US Open to qualify for the second round. The Kempense easily won 6-1 and 6-1.
In a prestigious duel at the Arthur Ashe Stadium in New York, the Belgian Greet Minnen (WTA 97) defeated the American legend Venus Williams (WTA 410) in straight sets. It was the first time that the 26-year-old Minnen and the now 43-year-old Williams competed against each other. De Kempense had qualified for the main draw through the qualifications. With Venus Williams she met the tournament winner of 2000 and 2001. The eldest Williams sister had received a wild card for the tournament.
The 26-year-old Minnen was very happy with the result. “I was told that Venus had already played in the final here in 1997, when I was just born,” she said on the track after qualifying. “It was incredible to go up against such a legend.” Minnen was impressed by Williams’ “fantastic shots and incredible serve”. She herself tried to be aggressive, letting Williams walk as much as possible and even distilling a few drop shots, which she was not used to. “My heart was pounding in the last game.”
Seven-time Grand Slam winner Williams praised our compatriot afterwards. “There wasn’t a single blow she couldn’t handle. Even when I hit really great balls, she won or made a drop shot, so I don’t think I played badly. I think it was just one of those days where you’re just unlucky.’
Minnen entered the stadium for the very first time in her career. “I hope I get the chance to play many more matches,” said the Kempense. Minnen’s best result at Flushing Meadows is a third round. She made it in 2021. Greet Minnen will play in the second round against the Croatian 21st seed Donna Vekic (WTA 22) or the American qualifier Sacha Vickery (WTA 204). This victory gives her a lot of confidence.
