Home » Pam Shriver recounts a remarkable Arthur Ashe match in which Serena Williams participated.
Pam Shriver recounts a remarkable Arthur Ashe match in which Serena Williams participated.
Pam Shriver, a 1978 US Open semifinalist, believes that the 2020 Arhur Ashe Stadium event, which featured Serena Williams, Victoria Azarenka, Naomi Osaka, and Jennifer Brady, was the most memorable. Williams, a 23-time Grand Slam winner, made a great start against Azarenka in their quarterfinal, but the Belarusian came back to win 1-6 6-3 6-3.
Four-time Grand Slam champion Osaka overcame hometown favorite Brady 7-6 (1) 3-6 6-3 in the other US Open quarterfinal. Since this year marks the stadium’s 25th anniversary of opening, I’m thinking back to some of the finest games played there.
Speculations? Nominees? Randy Walker, a former US Open press representative, questioned his Twitter audience.
Shriver: A spectacular performance came from Williams, Azarenka, Osaka, and Brady.
Serena Williams, Victoria Azarenka, Jennifer Brady, and Naomi Osaka’s US Open (semifinals) the most memorable session with both matches top shelf, Shriver responded to Walker. “Given no crowds, covid limitations, bubble, and players playing 1st ever Major Tennis,” Shriver said.
@serenawilliams @vika7 @jennifurbrady95 @naomiosaka semifinals 2020 @usopen was most memorable session with both sets top shelf despite no crowds, COVID restrictions, bubble, and players playing in epidemic Major Tennis. By Pam Shriver on July 27, 2022 (@PHShriver).
That match deserves more recognition in the context of tennis history, and this is a GREAT CALL! Walker reacted to Shriver’s viewpoint. In the final that year, Osaka defeated Azarenka to win her second championship at Flushing Meadows.
The four semifinalists for the 2020 US Open may not compete at the US Open this year. Due to a left foot ailment, Brady has been sidelined since August of last year. She may miss the US Open for the second time in a row.
Brady may not be playing at the US Open, but Williams will be competing at Flushing Meadows this year after missing the tournament the year before. The US Open, where I won my first Grand Slam, is always extra memorable when you’re at home, especially in New York, according to Williams.
Your first experience is always memorable. There is undoubtedly a lot of drive to improve and play at home.
