New York:Serena Williams dramatically extended her iconic career on Wednesday with a never-say-die, three-set victory over world number two Anett Kontaveit at the US Open. The 40-year-old, 23-time Grand Slam title winner triumphed 7-6 (7/4), 2-6, 6-2 in front of a raucous, partisan Arthur Ashe Stadium Court crowd to reach the third round of a tournament she has won six times.
Having declared that she was already "evolving away from tennis" after a 27-year career, Williams' force of will ensured that the retirement party was put on hold for a little longer. "There's no rush," said Serena on court when reminded that she had declared herself to be in the closing stages of her career.
"There's still a little left in me so we'll see. I'm a pretty good player. I love a challenge." "I'm just Serena, you know. Honestly after I lost the second set I thought 'oh my goodness, I've got to give my best effort because this could be it." She added: "I'm just looking at it as a bonus. I don't have anything to prove. I have absolutely nothing to lose. I've had an 'X' on my back since 1999."
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The American arrived on court with the stadium announcer proudly introducing her as "the greatest of all time" while Kontaveit waited patiently at her chair. Organisers, who laid on a spectacular welcome and post-match celebration for the American at her emotional first round win against Danka Kovinic on Monday, opted for a low-key party this time. Golf superstar Tiger Woods watched from the Williams' player box while Emmy award winning actress Zendaya also boosted the A-list of invitees from the Arthur Ashe Stadium stands.
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