Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Serena Williams was full of praise for her brave British opponent Heather Watson after beating her in an epic third-round contest, conceding that Watson deserved to win the match.
Williams eventually won across three sets after 2 hours and 15 mins of action on Centre Court.
"I have had some tough losses but that was the toughest match," the world No 1 Williams said after the match. "She played unbelievable and should have won the match. She gave her all and showed what a great player she is.
"She could get beyond the top 20, she is playing really well. She should set her sights higher. She was playing so good there was nothing I could do."
Williams, who has lifted this year's Australian and French Open titles, was forced to dig deep in front of a raucous home crowd after an error-strewn showing against the superb Watson, recovering from 3-0 down in the final set to win 6-2 4-6 7-5.
The 33-year-old, who said it was one of her toughest matches, will face her sister Venus in the last 16 -- their 26th career meeting -- as she continues her bid for a sixth Wimbledon title.
The signs looked ominous for Watson early on after being swept aside in the first set but the 23-year-old bounced back in the second, forcing Williams into a string of wayward shots as she matched up to her more powerful opponent.
Watson reeled off six games in a row with three straight service breaks to level the match and race into a 3-0 lead in the decider.
Even after a Williams rally she was twice just two points away from an unlikely win, only for the American to show the grit and guile behind many of her successes to prevail.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments