Venus Williams gives U.S. 2-1 Fed Cup lead

At the Fed Cup on Sunday, Venus Williams won against Anna Chakvetadze giving the United States 2-1 lead over Russia.

Venus Williams dives U.S. 2-1 Fed Cup lead Venus Williams defeated Russian Anna Chakvetadze 6-1, 6-4 on Sunday to give the U.S. 2-1 lead over Russia at the semi-finals of the Fed Cup. After coming from behind several times Saturday to beat Petrova in three sets, Williams appeared on her way to an easy victory over Chakvetadze, 8th in the world. Chakvetadze, who lost her only other match against Williams in 2005, was trailing behind Williams on both sets, but managed to give the U.S. fans some anxious moments, before loosing to Venus.

The win gave Meilen Tu the chance for a very memorable Fed Cup debut, when she faces Nadia Petrova. If Petrova wins, the outcome will be decided by the doubles.

The winner of the semi-final between Russia and USA will face Italy in September for the Fed Cup Final. The Italians won 3-2 against France on Saturday.

Published on 07/15/2007