US Open: Azarenka Ends Serena’s 24th Grand Slam Title Hopes

Serena Williams’ quest for an historic 24th Grand Slam singles title was shattered after a stunning end against old foe Victoria Azarenka in the semi-finals of the US Open in the early hours of Friday morning.

Williams was not helped by a jarred Achilles injury early in the deciding set that required heavy strapping and her quest to equal Margaret Court’s record of 24 Grand Slam singles titles goes on.

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Instead, it is two-time Australian Open champion Azarenka who will face Naomi Osaka in a quite remarkable story of resurgence.

Reacting to her exit, Williams described it as disappointing

“I started really strong. Then she just kept fighting. She just changed and started playing better and better. Maybe I took a little too much off the gas pedal at some point. She played really well.

“It’s obviously disappointing. At the same time, I did what I could today. I feel like other times I’ve been close and I could have done better. Today I felt like I gave a lot.”

And according to Azarenka:”I knew it wasn’t over at 5-3,” said the Belarusian. “I’ve been there before.

Today was going to be different. I was young, my ego was way too big. Now it’s a little smaller and the result’s coming.”