Bianca Andreescu became the first Canadian ever to win a major singles title by beating American icon Serena Williams 6-3 and 7-5 in the US Open Final at Flushing Meadows on Sunday.
The teenager captured a championship at 5-1 in the second run, but Williams reserved the lead. The 37-year old American won four games in a row to return to 5-5.
Andreescu finally ended the match by breaking Williams’ service for a sixth time. Before the final, Williams had only three service breaks in six games.
“I’ve worked very hard and this year it’s a dream come true. I tried to forget about who I was playing, and tonight, to play on this stage against Serena, a true legend of the sport, it’s incredible.” Andreescu said.
Andreescu will join the world top 5 at the next update of the WTA standings on Tuesday. She was 152nd at the start of the season.
“My goal has always been to win as many Grand Slam tournaments as possible, to become the number one tennis player in the world,” Andreescu said.
“The idea of glory never crossed my mind, but I do not complain. I lived a crazy year. I could certainly get used to that feeling.” she added.
Andreescu’s coach Sylvain Bruneau heaped praises on her protege. She has described the attitude of the-19-year-old player as heroic in times of hardship.
Williams has suffered a fourth consecutive loss in Grand Slam tournaments since giving birth to her daughter, including last year’s against Naomi Osaka at Flushing Meadows. This match is mostly history because of her complaint with referee Carlos Ramos.
She coveted a 24th career title, which would have allowed her to match Margaret Court’s record. Williams placed only 44 percent of her first serve in the game. She scored nine aces, but made eight double faults.
“Bianca played an unbelievable match. Congratulations. If someone other than me and Venus aside, must win this tournament, I’m glad it’s Bianca,” Williams said.
