Serena Williams makes ‘miracle’ claim after Simona Halep win at Australian Open
SERENA WILLIAMS says it is a “miracle” that she is still playing tennis after reaching the Australian Open quarter-finals.
Williams has been in brutal form all week but was pushed to her limits by world No 1 Simona Help this morning.
The American was broken in the opening game of the match but responded by winning the next six to clinch a 20-minute first set.
Halep rallied in the second to win 6-4 but wasted three break points midway through the decider before succumbing to Williams’ superiority.
Williams is edging closer to equal Margaret Court’s all-time Grand Slam record of 24 this week - and she is grateful for the position she is in.
“It was a really intense match and some incredible points but I love being here and I love this court,” Williams said.
“It is great to be back out and playing again on this court.
“I really needed to elevate my game. She's the No 1 player in the world and there's a reason why.
“She's a great player. In order for me to stay out there I had to play like I knew I could.
“I did and I think that was the difference.
“I am such a fighter and just never give up. Today I just worked so hard for every point.
“It is a miracle that I’m here and that I get to do something that I enjoy.
“This is my job, to come out and lay in front of you guys.
"It's a miracle that I'm here, I get to do something I enjoy, my job is to come out an play for you and play for every point.”
Williams’ victory was also revenge for her sister Venus, whom Halep denied a family reunion by knocking out of the previous round.
Serena faces Karolina Pliskova in the last eight on Wednesday.