Serena Williams vs Simona Halep
World No. 1 Serena Williams. GOAT. The American, 34-years-old, is fresh off her 22nd Grand Slam singles title, which saw her equal Steffi Graf’s Open Era record; she has also surpassed Graf’s record for longest streak as the top-ranked women’s tennis player.
That aside, Williams is on the back foot in terms of keeping her ranking, which is precariously perched, with World No. 2 Angelique Kerber closing in on it. Wililams now must win the title if she is to keep her ranking.
The American is, however, yet to drop a set going into her quarter-final today. She finished in the semi-finals last year, ousted by Italian Roberta Vinci, the eventual runner-up at the tournament.
She also has six titles at her home tournament already, and has rarely ever been taxed here at the US Open.
Simona Halep will not be very hopeful going into this match – of the 8 times the two have played against each other, Halep has won once. The only total win she had over Williams was by walkover at Indian Wells last year.
It thus goes without saying that Williams is the better player across all surfaces. Although Halep can put up a tenacious fight, she is unlikely to take a win over a powerful Williams fighting to defend her No 1 title and serving as powerfully as ever.
Prediction: Serena Williams to win in straight sets
Is Serena Williams a Jehovah's Witness? Why American legend doesn't celebrate birthdays or Christmas
