Story perspectives

Sofia Kenin Beats Venus Williams After Latest US Open Start

8/31/2026

Summary

Story summary

Venus Williams lost to Sofia Kenin in a US Open match that began at 12:13 a.m., the latest start ever.
Williams extended her singles losing streak to 15 matches, including 14 consecutive defeats.
Kenin earned her first night-session win after trailing 0-5, defeating Williams 6-2, 7-6 (6).
Williams said she will focus on recovery and upcoming doubles with sister Serena.

History

Historical Context

In 1997, Arthur Ashe Stadium debuted at the US Open in New York City, expanding capacity and enabling permanent night-session scheduling. The 23,771-seat arena attracted 150,000 spectators during its inaugural week, a 12% rise over the previous year’s attendance for the tournament. Today, Venus Williams and Sofia Kenin contested a US Open match that began at 12:13 a.m., the latest start since night sessions became routine. The stadium’s legacy of extended play underscores growing concerns about athlete recovery and prompts the USTA to reassess scheduling policies.

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Story summary

Venus Williams lost to Sofia Kenin in a US Open match that began at 12:13 a.m., the latest start ever.
Williams extended her singles losing streak to 15 matches, including 14 consecutive defeats.
Kenin earned her first night-session win after trailing 0-5, defeating Williams 6-2, 7-6 (6).
Williams said she will focus on recovery and upcoming doubles with sister Serena.

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