How Roberta Vinci Upset Serena Williams in the 2015 US Open Semifinals

Williams Pursued Historic Calendar Grand Slam

Serena Williams, then 33, was en route to achieving a rare feat that would cement her legacy as the greatest tennis player of all time. She needed just two more wins at the 2015 US Open to complete the Calendar Grand Slam, winning all four majors in a single year.

Vinci, an Unlikely Challenger

Standing in her way was Roberta Vinci, an unseeded, 32-year-old Italian with a subdued playing style. Vinci was ranked 41st in the world, with no expectation of defeating the powerful Williams.

“Up until that point, it had been a good career, some great matches, some sweet days in Fed Cup and, definitely, more trophies in doubles than in singles.”

Vinci’s Unconventional Game Style

Vinci’s game, built around touch and finesse, was a stark contrast to Williams’ powerful, aggressive play. She relished the fast American hard courts and had a proven track record in big matches.

The Unforgettable Match

Williams Dominates Early

In the match pushed back a day due to rain, Williams cruised through the first set, winning 6-2. However, Vinci remained calm and focused on being the best version of herself.

Vinci’s Tenacity Pays Off

As Williams wavered, Vinci capitalized on her opportunity. She began to out-hustle Williams, moving her around the court and striking when the opportunity arose. The Italian took the second set 6-4 and forced a deciding third set.

The Final Stretch

In the tense final stages, Vinci saved a game point at 4-4, further rattling Williams. With Vinci serving at 5-4, Williams sent a forehand long, giving Vinci the crucial break. On match point, Vinci moved Williams from corner to corner before hitting a winning half-volley drop shot.

The Upset

Roberta Vinci, the underdog with nothing to lose, had done the unthinkable – she had defeated Serena Williams 2-6, 6-4, 6-4, denying her the Calendar Grand Slam and sending the tennis world into shock.

Legacy of the Match

Today, Vinci calls the match “an epic” and often rewatches it. Despite the magnitude of the victory, Vinci never had the chance to talk to Williams after the match.

FAQs

What was Serena Williams trying to achieve in the 2015 US Open?

Williams was pursuing the Calendar Grand Slam – winning all four Grand Slam tournaments in a single year.

Who defeated Serena Williams in the 2015 US Open semifinals?

Roberta Vinci upset Williams 2-6, 6-4, 6-4, in one of the biggest upsets in tennis history.

Why was Roberta Vinci an unlikely challenger to Serena Williams?

Vinci was unseeded, ranked 41st in the world, and had a more defensively-oriented playing style compared to Williams’ aggressive game.

Did you know?

Vinci’s victory over Williams is considered one of the greatest upsets in sports history.

If Williams had won, she would have become only the sixth player in history to achieve a Calendar Grand Slam.

Pro Tip: Relive the legendary match on Supertennis, an Italian sports network, to appreciate Vinci’s monumental achievement firsthand.

Final Thoughts

The 2015 US Open semifinals will forever be remembered as the match where Roberta Vinci defied odds and expectations to upset the great Serena Williams. Beyond the shocks and surprises, it served as a reminder that in sports, anything is possible.

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