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Venus Williams exits US Open after first-round loss

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2026-08-31 17:55 UTC → 2026-08-31 20:01 UTC · added ~~removed~~

Venus Williams has been eliminated from the US Open following a first-round singles loss to Sofia Kenin. Competing on a wildcard, the 46-year-old veteran lost in straight sets, 6-2, 7-6 (6), marking her 15th consecutive singles defeat and her sixth consecutive first-round exit at the tournament. The match at Arthur Ashe Stadium set tournament records for its timing. Delayed by a lengthy five-set match between Novak Djokovic and Mariano Navone, the contest did not begin until 12:13 a.m., the latest start in US Open history, and concluded at 2:01 a.m., the latest finish for a first-round match. The late scheduling drew criticism from fans and pundits, who described the decision as “dysfunctional” and “disgraceful.” Williams expressed her own frustration regarding the scheduling, stating, “I just don’t know any other sport where you have to start that late. I definitely think there’s room for improvement there.” Despite the late hour and a sparse crowd, Williams showed resilience by rallying from a 4-2 deficit in the second set to force a tiebreak. However, she was unable to convert seven set points during the tiebreak, ultimately losing the match. While her singles run has ended, Williams is still scheduled to compete in the doubles tournament alongside her sister, Serena Williams, who also received a wildcard entry.

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