Jessica Pegula reached her maiden Grand Slam final in a tough defeat to world number one Aryna Sabalenka on the women’s side.

Taylor Fritz lost to Jannik Sinner in the men’s US Open final, as he became the first American man to reach a Major final since Andy Roddick.

There was action and surprises throughout both tournaments, as Novak Djokovic was dumped out of the US Open in the third round by Alexei Popyrin in one of the shocks of the season.

Similarly on the women’s side, defending champion Coco Gauff was knocked out before the quarter-final stage.

It was a great tournament, as it always is, which is likely in part thanks to one crucial member of staff.

Venus Williams reacts to Stacey Allaster stepping down as US Open Tournament Director

Stacy Allaster began working as Tournament Director for the US Open in 2020, having previously held the position of WTA CEO.

She received a lot of praise for her work as Tournament Director, but will step down upon the conclusion of the 2025 tournament, and move into a ‘special advisory role’.

Following the news, plenty of stars from around the world have thanked Allaster for her hard work, including former US Open champion Venus Williams.

“It’s hard to put into words the impact Stacey [Allaster] has made on our sport,” she said.

“She’s been a true champion for the game, and has paved the way for more women in leadership.

“We’re all inspired by you and grateful to call you a friend.

“Excited to see you continue striving forward, congratulations Stacey.”

Williams wasn’t the only high-profile WTA legend to thank Allaster, as Billie Jean King also thanked her for her contributions to the sport.

“Stacy Allaster’s strong leadership and creative ideas have transformed the US Open,” she said.

“As the first woman Tournament Director of the US Open, she championed equality and progress and worked tirelessly to raise the bar for success in her role.

“Thank you, Stacey, for all you have done for our sport of tennis, and for inspiring so many of us to reach our full potential.”

How good was Venus Williams at the US Open?

Williams won seven Major titles during her time on the WTA Tour, including two at the US Open.

In fact, she defended her title, winning in both 2000 and 2001, making her one of just three women to defend the US Open since the turn of the century, alongside Kim Clijsters and her sister Serena Williams.

Her second title in 2001, came against her sister Serena, as she won in straight sets before losing her next five Grand Slam finals to the eventual 23-time Major winner.

She wasn’t to win another US Open title, but Williams remains one of the most successful players in the history of the tournament.

Sat currently with the fourth most match wins in US Open history, there is no doubt that Williams made her mark at Flushing Meadows.

Winning two titles, reaching a further two finals, five semi-finals, and three quarter-finals, she consistently performed at the highest level during her 24 appearances at the tournament.

Currently listed as ‘inactive’, it seems unlikely that we’ll see Williams compete at the 2025 US Open which begins on August 25.

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