Venus Williams attended the US Open Champions of Equality event, which celebrated the 50th anniversary of the fight for equal prize money at the US Open.Venus Williams talked about how young women athletes are impressionable as they don’t necessarily have the maturity to handle different situations, which makes them easy targets.The American tennis legend explained: “I think the WTA definitely takes measures, and they’re taking even more measures every year.
Because the young women, they’re so good so young. Very impressionable. They don’t know anything about the world. Most of them have just played tennis. I know what that feels like, but I had protections and I was taught to stick to your values.
Not everyone has that opportunity to know who they might be at that young age. The WTA is definitely taking steps. I see it all over. I’m excited for that.”
Venus at the US Open 2023
Venus Williams was defeated in the first round of the 2023 US Open.
Venus was very honest in the press conference after her elimination in New York: “First I have to say, I definitely want to give credit to my opponent. I had no chance against her today, even when I used my best shots she was able to stop them and respond with winners or spin shots.
I honestly don’t think I played badly, I just think it was one of those days where you’re just unlucky. It’s true, I had minimal preparation for this match but I don’t think it influenced the match. In some sections my leg movement wasn’t effective and on the backhand I was lacking, but despite all these things I just have to give her credit.
Honestly she was incredible and maybe if she could play with this continuity she could deserve to be in the top 10 or even number one. She could even win a Grand Slam tournament at this level. For me, I haven’t played many challenges this year, but I’ve given it my all and only played a handful of challenges.
Of course I expected a different 2023 but I gave everything I had. I was definitely hoping to do more this year and I was really happy to be here. I was unlucky with injuries that blocked my preparation but I did everything I could to have a good challenge.”
