Venus Williams showed flashes of vintage form under the lights at Arthur Ashe Stadium on Monday but despite pushing Karolina Muchova to a deciding set the 45-year-old American fell 6-3 2-6 6-1 in a thrilling U.S. Open first-round battle.
The seven-times Grand Slam champion was making a record-extending 25th main draw appearance in New York, where she won the title in 2000 and 2001, and delivered a spirited performance before a packed and partisan crowd.
I didnt win today, but Im very proud of how I played, said Williams, who is now ranked number 582 in the world and received a wildcard to play in the tournament. I dont think Ive ever had a crowd that much on my side every point.
