Brengle Shocks Serena in Auckland

American Madison Brengle notched the biggest win of her career overnight, knocking off world number two and compatriot Serena Williams 6-4, 6-7(3), 6-4 in the second-round of the ASB Classic in Auckland, New Zealand.

“I just tried to concentrate on every point and run down every ball,” said Brengle. “It was difficult conditions…I tried to use the slice and get as many balls back as I could and it ended up working out.”

The conditions were a factor in Auckland, as swirling winds frustrated Serena all match long, leading her to commit 88 unforced errors.

“You can’t expect to win hitting that many errors…I never got in my rhythm. I didn’t hit any returns in the vicinity of the court,” said Serena. “I’ve never returned like that in my life. So it was a little frustrating, especially since I worked so hard in the off-season.”

Brengle moves on to play Jelena Ostapenko, who took out Mirjana Lucic-Baroni 6-2, 7-6(3).

The loss was part of a rough day for the Williams sisters, as second-seeded Venus withdrew from her match against Naomi Osaka. Up next for Osaka, is Ana Konjuh.

Caroline Wozniacki was able to push through into the quarterfinals, breezing past Varvara Lepchenko 6-3, 6-3. The third-seed will play Julia Goerges next.

Over in Brisbane, Australia, world number one Angelique Kerber survived a scare from Australia’s Ashleigh Barty, but Kerber hung on for the 6-3, 2-6, 6-3 victory. She will take on Elina Svitolina in the quarterfinals.