WTA World No. 1 Simona Halep has been eliminated in the Australian Open last-16 round after an intense three-set match against Serena Williams (6-1, 4-6, 6-4).
In the previous round, Halep had beaten Venus Williams and had high hopes for today’s match, but didn’t manage to keep up with Serena.
Serena Williams said:“It was an intense match and there were some incredible points. But I love playing tennis. It’s really cool to be back out playing on this court. I really needed to elevate my game. She’s the number one player in the world. I’m such a fighter. I just never give up. It’s definitely something that’s innate. It’s a miracle I’m here and I get to do something I enjoy. This is my job and it’s a super pleasure. That keeps me motivated and keep fighting for every point.”
Williams will play the quarter-final against Karolina Pliskova. Pliskova beat Williams in the US Open in 2016.