AFTER 11 MONTHS out of tennis due to a foot injury, Sloane Stephens came back and managed to win her first ever Grand Slam title yesterday.
The 24-year-old tennis player beat fellow American tennis player Madison Keys for the title and a hefty prize fund of $3.7 million. She was absolutely chuffed with herself:
I should just retire now. I’ll never be able to top this. Talk about a comeback.
However, it doesn’t look like retirement is on the horizon for Stephens.
Very impressive considering the challenges that Stephens faced. She added:
It’s incredible. I had surgery January 23rd. If someone told me then I’d win the US Open, it’s impossible I’d say. Absolutely impossible.
Well deserved. Runner up Madison Keys was also very gracious about the loss:
Sloane was very supportive and if there’s someone I have to lose to today, I’m glad it’s her. Sloane is truly one of my favourite people. If you told me two months ago I’d be holding a US Open finalist’s trophy, I’d have been really happy and proud of myself.
That’s some very admirable sportsmanship but let’s get to these pictures.
When Sloane received her winner’s cheque, she said “That’s a lot of money. Wow.” Her excitement is enough to brighten up anyone’s day.
What’s even better is that Sloane Stephens and Madison Keys are best friends.
They sat beside each other laughing and smiling at the side of the court after Stephens had a quick celebration with her team and family. After the match, Stephens said:
Maddie’s one of my best friends on tour and I wouldn’t have wanted to play anyone else. I told her I wished it could have been a draw. If it was the other way around, I know she would have done the same for me.
Keys kindly offered to look after the cheque for Sloane.
If the video won’t play, click here.
With her $3.7 million prize, Stephens promised to bring Keys out for a few jars.
Both of the women definitely deserve to celebrate.
