Gimpy Venus Needs Big Comeback to Advance

Down to three at own championship as Spain surges

(NEWSER) - With the Spanish conquering the US Open with five winners advancing yesterday, the waning American contingent is down to three at its own championship, reports the AP. And with two-time champ Venus Williams playing at the ripe old age of 30, and men's longshots Mardy Fish and Sam Querrey seeded 19th and 20th, respectively, things aren't looking terribly bright for the US. More»

(AP) - The Williams sisters won the US Open women's doubles title this afternoon, less than 2 days after Serena's ugly exit in the singles semifinals. In an incident-free match, Serena and Venus defeated defending champions Cara Black and Liezel Huber 6-2, 6-2 for their 10th career Grand Slam doubles title and first at Flushing Meadows since 1999. They are now 10-0 in Grand Slam women's doubles finals. More»

Penalty levied for racket abuse, unsportsmanlike conduct

(NEWSER) - Serena Williams' racket-smashing, verbal tirade at the US Open last night will cost her $10,500, the New York Times reports. The United States Tennis Association levied the fine today for unsportsmanlike conduct and racket abuse, SHe will be permitted to play her doubles match with sister Venus tomorrow. Venus practiced with their father today, but Serena was nowhere to be seen. More»

Kim Clijsters comes back after losing first set, 6-0

(AP) - Well, she sure answered that question. Anyone wondering how serious a threat Kim Clijsters might be at the US Open after a 2-year layoff got their answer today, when the 2005 champion at Flushing Meadows toppled none other than No. 3 Venus Williams, 6-0, 0-6, 6-4 to advance to the quarterfinals. "It was unbelievable. I don't know what to say," Clijsters said. More»

Elder Williams smacks sister in shoulder during doubles

(NEWSER) - Now Serena knows the full force of a Williams serve. At yesterday afternoon's first-round doubles match, Venus struck her sister in the left shoulder with an 81-mph second serve, leading to several anxious moments before Serena signaled she was OK. The pair, seeded fourth, went on to crush their opponents 6-2, 6-2. Asked what her first thought was after the errant serve, Venus said: "Play of the day on ESPN." More»