The final Grand Slam of the insane 2021 season is just around the corner. After a packed couple of months with the French Open, Wimbledon and the Olympic Games, players now shift their focus to New York for the US Open 2021. It will be a keenly contested tournament, as the US Open always promises to be. Recently, veteran Belgian Kirsten Flipkens provided a disappointing update. This however, has opened the door for 7-time Grand Slam champion Venus Williams.

The former French Open doubles semifinalist is still not fit

Earlier this year, Flipkens suffered an ankle injury that threw her in the deep end. After competing at the Australian Open, she was forced to take a break. Over the past few weeks, the Belgian was showing steady progress. She was out on the courts practicing, and was planning a dream return at Flushing Meadows. Unfortunately, it was not meant to be. After some long, hard consultations, the 35-year-old announced that she will need more time to recover fully. Her medical team advised her against a rushed comeback, meaning that ‘Flipper’ was forced to withdraw from the US Open.

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Flipkens’ withdrawal gives green light to Venus Williams

Despite the news being very disheartening for the Belgian, her loss ended up being someone else’s gain. That certain someone turned out to be 41-year-old Venus Williams. Citing the Belgian’s withdrawal, the tournament gave the green light for the entry of Venus into the main draw. The elder Williams sibling was earlier awarded a wild card for the tournament. Next up on the list of potential entrants, is another Belgian Greet Minnen.

This means that 2-time US Open winner Venus will compete at Flushing Meadows for a record 23rd time in her career. She will join a packed women’s draw this year. Though the draw may be difficult, the veteran will be hoping that the electric Arthur Ashe stadium treats her well this year.

How far do you think Venus Williams can go at New York this year? Will she able to capitalize on her entry into the main draw? The American legend still has what it takes, but it will be interesting to see if she can get hold of another big title before she calls it a day on her illustrious career.

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