Williams, 45, had not featured in any grand slam since losing in the first round of the 2023 US Open but produced a stirring display against an opponent 16 years her younger. Muchova, who reached the last four of the US Open in 2023 and 2024, eventually prevailed 6-3, 2-6, 6-1 in a topsy-turvy encounter that lasted exactly two hours and saw Williams produce a stunning second-set performance.
NEW YORK -- When Frances Tiafoe walked onto the court on Monday for his first-round match at the US Open, he knew it could be the last time he had the chance to play on Arthur Ashe Stadium. It wasn't Yoshihito Nishioka, his far less seasoned opponent, or the back injury that plagued him earlier this month in Cincinnati, or even a lack of confidence that made him feel that way.