Venus Williams may not have played much tennis year but she definitely has certain hopes for this year's US Open as the former world No. 1 reveals she would really like to make the mixed doubles final at Flushing Meadows and complete her resume.
After ending her 16-month absence from the Tour in late July, Williams received a singles wildcardfor the US Open. Also, the seven-time Grand Slam champion found herself on the receiving end of a mixed doubles wildcard with Reilly Opelka.
In singles and women's doubles, Williams has played finals across all Grand Slams. In mixed doubles, the 45-year-old is a winner at Melbourne Park and Roland Garros- a Wimbledon runner-up - but has never played a title match at Flushing Meadows. However, she has only once played mixed doubles at Flushing Meadows- it came in 1998 - when she made the quarterfinal with Justin Gimelstob.
Williams: A US Open mixed doubles final is the only major final I'm missing
"Usually, I dont play much after the US Open, so you probably wont see me after the tournament this year. But for next year, dont count me out too much! The only major final Ive never played is the mixed doubles final at the US. So, its kind of a priority for me to play it, because its the only thing Ive never accomplished in tennis. Ive always been very close to the winners circle in everything Ive done throughout my career," the seven-time Grand Slam winner in singles said.
Williams and Opelka have had a strong relationship for years and they are good friends. But while they will certainly enjoy playing alongside each other, they are about to face an incredibly tough competition.
Matches will be played under a shortened format and this year'smixed doubles event in New York and it will only take place across two days - August 19-20.
