VENUS: I LOVE THE PRESSURE, IT’S A BEAUTIFUL GAME
VENUS WILLIAMS insists she still thrives on pressure after reaching her 10th Wimbledon semi-final at the age of 37.
The five-time champion (below) defeated French Open champion Jelena Ostapenko – who is 17 years younger – 6-3 7-5.
At 37 years and 29 days, she is the oldest semifinalist here since Martina Navratilova in 1994.
The American, who will now face Jo Konta in the last four tomorrow, is making her 20th Wimbledon appearance.
“I love the challenge. I love pressure. It’s not always easy dealing with it,” said Williams. “There’s constant pressure. It’s only yourself who can have the answer for that.
“I love the last day you play, you’re still improving.
“It’s not something that is stagnant. There’s always a reason. You have to get better. I love that.
“I love it. I try really hard. There’s no other explanation. You do your best while you can. That’s what I’m doing.
“I love this game. That’s why I put in the effort and the time. It’s a beautiful game. It’s been so good to me.”
Williams won her last Wimbledon title in 2008 – and lost the 2009 final to her sister Serena.