In the end, Williams handled the occasion better than her 26-year-old opponent - who looked emotional before the final game as she hid under her towel - and secured a victory that left many in an exultant crowd jumping to their feet to celebrate.
"I'm a pretty good player, this is what I do best. I love a challenge and I'm rising to the challenge," said the six-time US Openchampion, who first won at Flushing Meadows in 1999.
