Serena Williams, a 23-time Grand Slam champion, has claimed her first WTA title as a mother, winning the Auckland Classic in dominant fashion. The 38-year-old American tennis legend defeated compatriot Jessica Pegula 6-3, 6-4 in the final, showcasing her readiness to contend for another major title at the upcoming Australian Open.
Williams’ victory holds significant meaning, as it marks the first time she has won a title in four different decades. Adding to the occasion, her two-year-old daughter, Alexis Olympia Ohanian Jr., was in the audience to witness her mother lift the trophy.
The match saw Williams overcoming early pressure from Pegula, the world No. 82, before finding her rhythm and asserting her dominance. After being broken in the first game, Williams regained control, winning five consecutive games to secure the first set in 49 minutes.
In the second set, Williams secured an early break and maintained her lead, despite Pegula’s determined effort to save three championship points. Ultimately, Williams sealed the victory, throwing her hands in the air and nearly collapsing to the court in celebration.
“I’ve been waiting two years for this moment,” Williams said after the match. “It feels good. It’s been a long time. You can see the relief on my face.”
Adding to the significance of her win, Williams announced that she will donate her $43,000 (approximately $62,300 AUD) prize money to the Australian bushfire relief efforts. This gesture reflects her commitment to using her platform to make a positive impact beyond the tennis court.
The Auckland Classic title is particularly important for Williams, as it comes after a five-final losing streak since her last title, the 2017 Australian Open. This drought included four defeats in Grand Slam finals, twice at Wimbledon and the US Open.
With this victory under her belt, Williams arrives at the Australian Open with a title already secured for the year, a feat that has eluded her in the past. Given her dominant hardcourt form and her unparalleled record at Melbourne Park, where she is a seven-time champion, Williams may never have a better opportunity to match the record held by Australian great Margaret Court and claim her 24th Grand Slam title.
Throughout the week in Auckland, Williams displayed her trademark fortitude, delivering a 43-minute beatdown of world No. 25 Amanda Anisimova in the semi-finals and defeating several other top-100 players, including Laura Siegemund, Christina McHale, and Camila Giorgi. Only McHale managed to take a set off Williams, who also reached the final of the doubles event with Caroline Wozniacki.
Serena Williams’ triumph in Auckland not only showcases her continued excellence on the court but also her ability to inspire and make a positive impact off it. As she prepares for the Australian Open, the tennis world eagerly awaits her pursuit of a historic 24th Grand Slam title, which would cement her legacy as one of the greatest athletes of all time.
