Former world No.1 Serena Williams has described the conditions at the Hopman Cup as ideal preparation for her ahead of the Australian Open.
The 37-year-old continued her unbeaten run in singles matches this week with a 6-1, 7-6(2), win over British world No.97 Katie Boulter on Thursday. After racing through the opener in just 25 minutes, Williams was firmly tested in the second set. Losing a 2-0 lead and then fending off a break point that she faced in the fourth game. Nevertheless, the American held her nerve to seal a straight sets win.
“It was perfect; it’s just like this in Melbourne. It’s the exact same sun and it gives me so many problems,” said Williams.
“After you serve, you are blind for the next two points.
“It was good to play three matches here, singles, not to mention the mixed doubles.”
Williams’ latest win drew praise from her opponent Boulter, who said she was ‘privileged’ to play against the 23-time grand slam champion. During their clash, Williams hit 20 winners to 19 unforced errors.
“She’s a champion so to actually share the court with her is such a privilege and of course we’re really happy to get the win,” said Boulter.
Earlier this week, Williams had already scored wins over Belinda Bencic and Maria Sakkari in Perth. She is a two-time winner of the event, but was last successful back in 2003 when she paired up with James Blake.
“It was good to play three singles matches here (at the Hopman Cup), not to mention the Mixed as well.” She said.
Despite Williams’ trio of wins, it was not enough to send America into the final. In their third tie against Great Britain, they suffered a 2-1 loss. Earlier in the day, Frances Tiafoe suffered a 7-6(4), 6-0, loss to Cameron Norrie. A player who is ranked 51 places lower than him. Tiafoe was broken in four out of his last five service games.
“It was tough today,” said Norrie. “Frances came out and played very aggressive from the start and was serving well.”
“I managed to sneak a break back when he was serving it out and then a very tough tiebreak. I was able to free it up a little in the second set.”
Following on from the singles matches, the American duo lost in the mixed doubles after having a one-set lead. Meaning that they end the week without winning a single tie.
Williams will return to action in two weeks time at the Australian Open.
