“It’s so much fun, you know, and playing well and playing at a super high level and with more matches, I’ll just get better, said Williams. The world No 55 was a tough draw for the wildcard, who might have preferred someone less experienced. Williams showed her level was still there – with some punishing groundstrokes off both wings – but wasn’t consistent enough and struggled at times with her movement. “One of the biggest disadvantages for me is that everybody’s played more matches than I have,” said Williams. After a prolonged break – following her decision to end the 2025 season early last September – Svitolina was delighted with her form.

Source: New Zealand Herald January 06, 2026 20:34 UTC