Serena edges out Ostapenko in Fed Cup
WASHINGTON: Serena Williams had to dig deep to fend off Latvian challenger Jelena Ostapenko as she wrapped up Friday’s play at the Fed Cup in Seattle with a hard-fought victory that gave the United States a 2-0 advantage.
Williams’ experience and savvy ways showed in critical moments against the 22-year-old Ostapenko as she prevailed 7-6(4) 7-6(3) in a match that took one hour and 46 minutes.
“I’ve played in front of so many crowds but I don’t think I’ve ever played in front of a crowd this loud,” Serena said after the match.
Her victory followed compatriot and Australian Open champion Sofia Kenin’s easy 6-2 6-2 win over Anastasija Sevastova to give the Americans the lead heading into Saturday.
With Williams up a set, the 23-times major champion and Ostapenko held service through a 5-5 tie in the second. Williams capitalized on Ostapenko’s errors to finally break ahead 6-5 before her own miscues forced another tie break.
Down 2-0 in the tie break, Williams ran off five straight points, including a forehand winner to move ahead 5-2, to take control and ultimately prevail. - AFP