HONG KONG – Venus Williams crashed in Hong Kong Friday as her preparations for the Australian Open were marred by a second straight-sets defeat in as many days.
Chinese ace Li Na dominated the seven-time Grand Slam winner in every department for the 6-3, 7-6 victory, helping Asia-Pacific to draw level with the Americas in the silver final of Hong Kong’s World Team Challenge Friday. “I enjoy playing here, I love the fans her supporting me. I’m looking forward to coming back next year,” Li said after the match. Williams, 30, had the balance in the baseline battle early on, despite playing well below her best, but the Chinese player was more consistent, hitting more winners and aggressively attacking the American’s second serve.
