Serena Williams survived another tight tussle with Victoria Azarenka to retain her US Open title and win a 17th grand slam singles trophy. The world number one recovered from losing a second set in which she led 4-1 and twice served for the match to triumph 7-5 6-7 (6/8) 6-1. WilliamsÂ’ fifth US Open singles success moved her to within one of Chris Evert and Martina NavratilovaÂ’s 18 slam crowns and level with Roger Federer.
It was a rematch of last yearÂ’s final, when Azarenka also fought back from a set down before serving for the match only for Williams to edge it. Williams won her first US Open title 14 years ago but never has she been as dominant as this season, with this trophy her ninth of the year and second grand slam after a much-cherished French Open triumph.
The 31-year-old also picked up a cheque for US dollars 3.6million, and she said: “Victoria played unbelievable, and what a great match. “Vika’s such a great fighter and that’s why she’s been able to win multiple grand slams, so it was never over until match point.”
Azarenka conceded the better player had won, saying: “It is a tough loss. I gave it my all, we showed our hearts, we fought, but it was well deserved and congratulations Serena.”
