NEW YORK: Shelby Rogers had lost to world No.1 Ashleigh Barty four times this year, winning just two sets. That’s until the American turned it around on Saturday.
“I was joking before that, every time I lost to her I can't be mad because she’s such a nice person,” said Rogers, who edged the top-seed out of the US Open.
“She’s always encouraging to everybody around her. She brings up the energy wherever she goes. I can’t say how much respect I have for her and what a great representative she is for women's tennis.”
Raising a toast to the 25-year-old Aussie, Rogers said, “A lot of people are taking what she has done for granted. She hasn't been able to go home since March. That's insane. She's resetting on the road, she's worked through injuries, she's won five titles. She's remained No. 1. I mean, this girl is everything every player wants to be.”
“Honestly, I could do this for another 20 minutes,” she said, applauding Barty. “Any time I get to give her a hug, I try to take the moment.”
