Emma Raducanu takes down Serena Williams at Cincinnati Open

In one of the most highly-anticipated opening round matches in recent history, British star Emma Raducanu defeated WTA legend Serena Williams in straight sets at the Western & Southern Open.

The reigning US Open champion was dominant in her 6-4 6-0 win over the 23-time Grand Slam champion, breaking Williams to start the match. Raducanu played clean tennis throughout the match, while her American opponent struggled to find any rhythm.

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The 19-year old looked determined from the onset, hitting just one unforced error and eight winners in the first set. Conversely, the 40-year old Williams produced 12 unforced errors, which was enough to give Raducanu a double break and eventually the opening set.

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With momentum on her side and Williams struggling to keep balls in play, Raducanu raced away with the second set. The 10th seed hit zero unforced errors in the second set, while Williams battled rust and match fitness. Raducanu closed out the match to notch her 12th win of the season, and will face former World No.1 Victoria Azarenka in the second round.

After announcing her retirement following the US Open, Williams is set to begin preparations for the last Grand Slam of her career at Flushing Meadows.

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