‘We would rather have met later’: Serena Williams sets up US Open third-round showdown with sister Venus after overpowering Carina Witthoeft in straight sets
- Serena Williams beat Carina Witthoeft 6-2, 6-2 at the US Open on Wednesday
- She served 13 aces and 30 winners for second consecutive straight-sets victory
- The 36-year-old wrapped up the win in one hour and seven minutes on day three
Serena Williams overpowered German Carina Witthoeft 6-2, 6-2 to set up a third-round clash with big sister Venus at the US Open on Wednesday.
Williams sent down 13 aces and 30 winners to record her second consecutive straight-sets victory at Flushing Meadows as the 36-year-old, who is hunting a record-equalling 24th Grand Slam title, wrapped up the win in one hour and seven minutes.
‘It’s always such a great crowd at night. It’s just amazing to play in front of this crowd,’ she said courtside after her victory. ‘I was happy with a lot of things.’
Serena Williams overpowered German Carina Witthoeft 6-2, 6-2 at the US Open on Wednesday
Williams sent down 13 aces and 30 winners to record second consecutive straight-sets victory
Williams and Carina Witthoeft shake hands after their match on third day of the tournament
Next up is a 30th career meeting with Venus, who beat her younger sibling in their most recent encounter at Indian Wells earlier this year.
The last time the two sisters met at a Grand Slam was in the 2017 Australian Open final, where Serena prevailed in straight sets.
Next up is a 30th career meeting with Venus, who beat her in their most recent encounter
‘It’s obviously a tough match,’ Serena added.
‘It’s so young in the tournament, but it is what it is. It’s not the end of the world. We would rather have met later. We’re both going to come out per usual and play our best in front of you guys.
‘Normally, I would say cheer for me. But, whoever you feeling, me or Venus will work.’
Witthoeft of Germany hits a return to Williams during the second-round match on Wednesday
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