'I'm better than that': Serena stunned at Australian Open

Serena Williams of the U.S. reacts as she plays China's Wang Qiang in their third round singles match at the Australian Open tennis championship in Melbourne, Australia, Friday, Jan. 24, 2020. MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA -- Down to what sure felt like her last chance, Serena Williams came through with a cross-court forehand winner to close a 24-stroke point, then raised her arms, held that celebratory pose and looked over toward her guest box.

"I was optimistic that I would be able to win. I thought, `OK, now finish this off.' I honestly didn't think I was going to lose that match," Williams said about her mindset after forcing a third set. "I'm better than that," said Williams, who trudged through the long walkway that leads to the locker room, carrying two bags, while Wang was doing the winner's interview in Rod Laver Arena.

Here is just one measure of how unexpected this result was: The only other time these two women faced each other came at Flushing Meadows last September -- the only Slam quarterfinal appearance of Wang's career thus far -- and Williams needed all of 44 minutes to dominate her way to a 6-1, 6-0 victory. The total points were 50 to 15.

She was 0 for 5 on break chances until then but the sixth time was the charm. On the point of the day, with both players slugging away from the baseline, it was Williams who did what it took to take it."During the second set, a little bit confused. ... I have to be calm, you know?" Wang said. "A little bit confused inside, but my mind always told me I had to focus on the court, focus on the point and trust myself.

Friday's winners included No. 1 Ash Barty, two-time major champion Petra Kvitova, No. 18 Alison Riske and No. 22 Maria Sakkari. In men's action, defending champ Novak Djokovic, No. 14 Diego Schwarzman and unseeded Marton Fucsovics advanced.

How about a photo of the match winner?

nice

It’s always about Serena. Could never be the other player was better on the day. 🙄

Was better is more like it!

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