Venus Williams loses Wimbledon semi-final to Angelique Kerber
Thursday 7 July 2016 21:24, UK
Venus Williams failed to secure a Wimbledon final against sister Serena after suffering a semi-final defeat to Angelique Kerber.
The 36-year-old five-time winner could not set-up another showdown with Serena in Saturday's final after slipping to a 6-4 6-4 defeat against Kerber.
Serena had earlier paved the way for a potential clash with her older sibling by defeating Elena Vesnina 6-2 6-0 in just 49 minutes on Centre Court.
Kerber defeated Serena in this year's Australian Open final and the German fourth seed will attempt to thwart the American's bid for a 22nd Grand Slam title, which would equal Steffi Graf's professional era record.
There were seven breaks of serve in an eventful first set, with both players showing signs of nerves on Centre Court.
But the left-handed Kerber was gradually wearing down Williams in the baseline exchanges and the former champion surrendered the set with a forehand into the net.
Kerber would claim another telling break at the start of the second set and withstood a determined effort from Williams before sealing victory with a fine forehand winner.
The 28-year-old gave credit to her beaten opponent and is relishing the chance to double her tally of major trophies.
"It's always a tough match against her," said Kerber. "She's a champion and she's won so many times here. That's why I'm really happy about my game and my first final here at Wimbledon.
"I think right now I have a lot of experience from my last few years on tour and I'm enjoying my tennis life at the moment.
"I'm just happy to be in my second grand slam final."
