New York, August 26(HS): American legend Venus Williams bowed out of the US Open 2025 in the opening round on Monday, falling to Czech star Karolina Muchova in a thrilling three-set battle under the lights at Arthur Ashe Stadium. Muchova prevailed 6-3, 2-6, 6-1 to advance.
The 45-year-old seven-time Grand Slam champion, playing her record 25th main draw at Flushing Meadows, showed remarkable grit and flashes of her vintage game. After dropping the first set, Williams electrified the crowd with a spirited comeback in the second, using net play and sharp groundstrokes to storm to a 5-2 lead before sealing the set. But in the decider, her energy faded, and Muchova’s aggressive baseline hitting proved too strong.
Twice a US Open champion (2000, 2001), Williams received a rousing ovation from New York fans. “I didn’t win today, but I’m proud of my game,” she said. “The support I felt tonight is something I’ve never experienced before.”
Muchova, who has reached the semifinals here in each of the past two years, hailed the occasion: “It was an unbelievable atmosphere. Venus is a legend, and it’s truly an honor to share the court with her.”
The contest, lasting nearly two hours, reinforced Williams’ enduring passion for the sport despite her current world ranking of 582 — and cemented her status as a timeless icon beloved by fans worldwide.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar
