Picture perfect for new champ Sloane

– Worries didn’t end for Sloane Stephens after winning her first Grand Slam title on Saturday at the US Open, recalling the fabulous photographs of past champions she admired along the hallways of Arthur Ashe Stadium.

“Everyone has the cutest photos on the wall in here with this trophy and that’s what I remember seeing most,” Stephens said.

“So when I was taking my pictures I was worried about my boob sweat because I was like this is a picture they are probably going to use and I look terrible.”

Such natural, candid and comedic comments summed up the champion’s mood after her 6-3, 6-0 victory over fellow American and friend Madison Keys for a top prize of $3.7 million.

Stephens, who had won only $310 000 this year after being sidelined for 11 months until July by a foot injury, said her desire for more big titles has been fuelled.

“Of course,” Stephens said. “Did you see the cheque that lady handed me? Like, yes. Man, if that doesn’t make you want to play tennis, I don’t know what will.”

Told she had made only six unforced errors in her 61-minute triumph, Stephens (right) was thrilled and shocked.

“I don’t think that’s ever happened to me before,” Stephens said, snapping her fingers.

Stephens has already made her mark in the US Open locker room, noting: “They’ve already engraved my name on the locker.”

But she was unsure if she had “arrived” as a player.

“I don’t know,” she said. “But I do know I’m a US Open champion.” – AFP