Venus happy with progress in Paris

Paris

“It feels like I want to keep going. At this stage in my life, in my career, it’s like you don’t want to lose early,” the seven-time Grand Slam champion said after walloping fellow American Louisa Chirico 6-2 6-1.

It is the kind of punishment her younger sister, world number one Serena, metes out on a regular basis, but after matching Serena’s winning second-round scoreline on Thursday, Venus was eager to cherish her moment in the sun. “I’m just always looking to play better, be consistent, be aggressive, and have that combination,” said the 2002 Roland Garros runner up.

This year, the ninth seed is simply counting her blessings. “When I step out on the court, it’s of course never going to be an easy match for me, but it’s never going to be easy for my opponent as well,” Venus said after setting up a third-round showdown with French hopeful Alize Cornet.

“I’m just grateful I think with every year that passes and every moment that I play, I’m grateful for this experience and blessed,” she said.