Venus Williams continues her progression through the rounds of the US Open, and last night she had a little support. The World No. 4 played at Arthur Ashe stadium in front of a couple of VIPs, Serena Williams and Baltimore Orioles’ first black manager, Frank Robinson. Serena was representing while sidelined with an injury, wearing a flattering red dress and commentating alongside legend, John McEnroe. Robinson was there due to his great respect for tennis and what the Williams sisters have brought to the game.
In an interview during the match with Pam Shriver, Robinson was asked about the burden Venus and Serena carry by having to represent the race in tennis
“It’s hard. There are so many people pulling for them … the entire race is on their shoulders with African Americans wanting them to win all the time,” he said.
So far, the sisters have been prospering under the pressure.
Venus, sporting a sparkly “little black dress” from her Eleven line, which she said was “inspired by the theme of celebration,” took it to her opponent, Mandy Minella of Canada, beating her 2-6, 6-1. She had a few nagging unforced errors, but her net game was on in a big way. She won 18 of 21 points at the net, moving forward every chance she could. She smashed and volleyed her way to the finish line.
Her 24-year old opponent was scarcely able to hold serve the entire match, but Minella took the edge off by engaging in a little playful banter with the crowd while she was being pummeled.
“I’m glad I had the opportunity to play [hurricane Earl threatened the match] and had no idea what my opponent would be like … I hope you guys support me all the way through to the finals,” Venus said after winning.
Next, Venus will play Israel’s Shahar Peer, who she has a 4-0 record against.
