FILE PHOTO: ON THIS DAY — June 6 June 6, 2015 TENNIS – American Serena Williams celebrates winning a point in her dramatic 6-3 6-7(2) 6-2 win over Czech Lucie Safarova in the French Open final at Roland Garros. Having battled the effects of a nasty flu, the top-ranked Williams staved off a spirited comeback attempt from Safarova — who was playing in her maiden Grand Slam final — to secure a 20th major crown. Williams has since won two Wimbledon championships and the Australian Open to take her Grand Slam tally to 23. REUTERS/Vincent Kessler/File Photo
(Reuters) – Serena Williams confirmed on Wednesday she will compete at this year’s U.S. Open in New York amid the COVID-19 outbreak, where the seven-times champion will seek a record-tying 24th career Grand Slam singles title.
“Ultimately, I really cannot wait to return to New York and play the U.S. Open 2020,” Williams said in a video message played during a United States Tennis Association news conference to confirm that the Aug. 31-Sept. 13 tournament will proceed without fans.
“I feel like the USTA is going to do a really good job of ensuring everything is amazing and … everyone is safe.”
Reporting by Frank Pingue in Toronto; Editing by Kevin Liffey