NEW YORK (AP) — In a standout performance at the U.S. Open, Venus Williams and Leylah Fernandez advanced to the women’s doubles quarterfinals by securing a victory over the 12th-seeded pair of Ekaterina Alexandrova and Zhang Shuai. The match, held on Monday at a packed Louis Armstrong Stadium, ended with scores of 6-3, 6-4.
This dynamic duo, who had not teamed up prior to this tournament, gained a wild-card entry and have now maintained an unbeaten streak of three matches, remarkably not dropping a set in the process.
“We’re on the same wavelength, and hopefully we can keep it going,” stated Williams, reflecting on their impressive run.
With the stadium buzzing and eager fans waiting for their chance to witness the match, the experienced 45-year-old Williams and 22-year-old Fernandez took only one hour and 14 minutes to secure their place in the next round.
Fernandez expressed her confidence in their partnership, saying, “I have full confidence in Venus, and I hope she has full confidence in me during our match. We’re just going out there, playing our game: Be offensive, aggressive and ready for the ball.”
Williams praised Fernandez as her best doubles partner since her sister Serena Williams, who has won an impressive 14 Grand Slam doubles titles with Venus. While Serena is not currently competing, her support continues from a distance. “She’s so happy for Leylah and me, and she’s given us advice. We just need her in the box. So, my message is, ‘Serena, you need to show up,’” Williams remarked.
This powerful combination of experience and youthful energy is proving to be an exciting aspect of this year’s tournament, as fans remain eager to see just how far Williams and Fernandez can go together.
