This tournament also witnessed Serena’s younger sister winning her first Grand Slam in 1999. Since claiming victory at the Australian Open in 2017, Serena Williams has lost four Grand Slam finals, missing the chance to equal the legendary Margaret Court’s record of 24 Grand Slam titles.

Welcomed warmly by the packed audience of 29,402 in the Arthur Ashe Stadium, Serena Williams, after an emotional start, quickly found her rhythm on the court. She dominated her younger opponent, 13 years her junior, with powerful rallies and graceful net play.

In a moment of joyous celebration, Serena Williams triumphed as Danka Kovinic netted the final point. She glanced towards the stands, where her four-year-old daughter, Olympia, cheered enthusiastically. A series of political figures and entertainment stars rose to applaud, including former US President Bill Clinton.

This victory marked Serena Williams’ 107th win at the US Open, with 102 matches played on the Arthur Ashe Stadium, half of which occurred during the evening sessions. She remains undefeated in the first round of the US Open for 21 matches and has dropped only two sets in this tournament.