US Open: Serena Receives Sympathy, Bianca Andreescu Hailed As The Future

Bianca Andreescu held her nerve to defeat six-time US Open champion Serena Williams in her first Grand Slam final AFP / TIMOTHY A. CLARY

The US Open continued its tradition of introducing new superstars in the women’s game after yet another first time champion emerged on Saturday with Bianca Andreescu becoming the first Canadian to win a singles Grand Slam title. In 2018, it was Naomi Osaka, who became the first Japanese player to win a singles Grand Slam title.

The biggest loser in all these history-making feats has been Serena Williams, who was the victim on both occasions. The American, 23-time women’s singles Grand Slam champion, continues her wait for equaling Margaret Court’s record of 24 major titles.

Williams lost to Osaka in straight sets in 2018 in a final riddled with controversy, while it more straight forward on Saturday, she again went down in straight sets to the Canadian teenager, who incidentally was born nine months after the American won her first major. Andreescu has been hailed by the tennis community for her achievement, while many felt sorry for Williams, who has now lost four Grand Slam finals since returning after giving birth to daughter Alexis Olympia Ohanian in 2018.

"Congratulations Bianca on an amazing performance and your first grand slam! Romania is very proud of you,” Simona Halep, who beat Williams in the final at Wimbledon earlier this year said, as quoted on Tennis World USA.

American youngster Sloane Stephens also paid tribute to Andreescu, but thanked Williams admitting that tennis would not be what it is today if not for the 37-year-old, who is arguably among the greatest ever players to play the game.

"Congrats Bianca on your first slam! Enjoy this moment, so well deserved. And congrats on another amazing tournament Serena. This sport wouldn’t be what it is without you. You continue to inspire all of us,” Stephens said.

"My heart goes out to Serena getting so close to her 24th Grand Slam title and coming up short but I also want to congratulate the new Women’s Singles Champion, Bianca Andreescu, for an exceptional tournament!!!” legendary coach Nick Bollettieri said paying tribute to the American.