Serena Williams agrees, Tiger Woods served as major inspiration in US Open victory

After beating No. 2 in women's tennis, Annett Kontaveit last Wednesday, Serena Williams proved she came to the US Open to compete against the best. But she did have a lot of inspiration and perhaps a little pressure due to one special visitor at Arthur Ashe Stadium. Tiger Woods was spotted in the stands greeting Serena's sister, Venus, who was eliminated from singles earlier in the day.

Woods himself sent a message of encouragement to the Williams sister who remains alive in the tournament and she was definitely asked about his visit after the match. Needless to say, Woods has always been keen on keeping a close relationship with other athletes who are also considered trend-setters in their discipline. Serena Williams is no different.

What Tiger Woods' presence meant to Serena Williams

After the win, a member of the press asked Serena what seeing Tiger Woods in the stands meant to her. She didn't hesitate to praise the golf legend: "He's one of the reasons I'm here, one of the main reasons I'm still playing. We talked a lot. He was really trying to get me motivated.

"There's a few people, but we were like, 'OK, we can do this together'. It was good, because I didn't know what I wanted to do. I was just lost, so many questions. When you can rely on someone like that - I mean, my goodness, he's Tiger Woods - it was really helpful to get clarity."

About the good momentum she currently has, Williams added: "It's no rush here. I'm loving this crowd. There's still a little left in me. We'll see. I'm a pretty good player, this is what I do best. I love a challenge and I'm rising to the challenge. I haven't played many matches, but I've been practising really well.

"The last couple of matches it's come together. After I lost the second set I thought, 'I've got to give my best effort because this could be it'. I'm just looking at it as a bonus. I don't have anything to lose. I've had an X on my back since 1999. I really enjoy just coming out and enjoying it."

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