US Open: I fear playing Venus, says Serena Williams

History-chasing champion Serena admits her sister Venus is the only player she doesn't want to play against as they clash in 2015 US Open quarterfinals today

New York: Serena Williams admits her sister Venus is the one player she fears at the US Open.


Venus Williams. (Pic/AFP) and Serena Williams (Pic/Getty Images) 

The most famous siblings in tennis will today meet for the 27th time in the quarter-finals at Flushing Meadows after Serena ousted fellow American Madison Keys 6-3, 6-3 and Venus thrashed Estonian qualifier Anett Kontaveit 6-2, 6-1.

Also Read: Serena vs Venus: Top 5 memorable clashes

It is the first all-Williams clash in New York since they met at the same stage in 2008, when Serena edged two tie-breaks en route to winning the title, and their 14th in grand slams overall.

This latest family affair, however, carries extra poignancy given Venus could prevent her younger sibling from becoming the first player since Steffi Graf in 1988 to complete the calendar Grand Slam.

Also Read: Novak Djokovic admires Serena-Venus Williams rivalry

"For me I'm playing the best player in the tournament, and that's never easy," Serena said. "She's beaten me so many times. I've taken a lot of losses off of her — more than anybody. She's a player that knows how to win, knows how to beat me, and knows my weaknesses better than anyone.

'Not so easy'
"It's not very easy. Like I said, for me, she's the only player in the draw I don't want to play — not only because she's my sister but because for me she's the best player."

Serena would become only the fourth female player in history to win all four major titles in a single year and is chasing her seventh success at the US Open. "I don't think anyone wants to be a spoiler," Venus said. "I think people love to see history being made. No one is out to be a spoiler, but at the same time, you're focused on winning your match."

"Exciting news! Mid-day is now on WhatsApp Channels Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!