Serena Williams consoles Ukrainian teen after winning match: ‘Don’t cry’
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}Serena Williams is used to dominating her competition at the Australian Open, but showed once again she was a magnanimous winner when she took the time to console her Ukrainian opponent who became overwhelmed after suffering a heavy defeat.
Williams, 37, was seen consoling Dayana Yastremska, 18, Saturday. Yastremska was seen wiping away tears after losing to Williams 6-2 6-1. The veteran tennis star put her hand on her opponent’s shoulder and offered some comforting words.
“You’re so young,” Williams told Yastremska. “You did amazing. Don’t cry.”
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}Williams said after the match that she could tell her opponent was upset.
“I could tell she was quite upset. I kind of liked that. It shows she wasn’t just there to play a good match – she was there to win. She wanted to win. That really broke my heart,” Williams said. “I think she’s a good talent. It’s good to see that attitude.”
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}So far, Williams has sailed through the Australian Open as she chases her 24th Grand Slam title, but her fourth-round opponent will be slightly stiffer competition. She will face number one ranked player Simona Halep. Williams’ older sister Venus was beaten by Halep, 6-2, 6-3.
On Tuesday, Williams was also seen comforting her opponent, Tatjana Maria, after running away with her opening-round match.
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}The Associated Press contributed to this report.