Australian qualifier Ash Barty has stunned American veteran and world No.9 Venus Williams to advance to the third round of the Cincinnati Open in the lead up to the final grand slam of the calendar year.
Barty completed the biggest win of her young career, 6-3, 2-6, 6-2, claiming her first ever top-10 scalp.
The 21-year-old, who entered the top-50 for the first time in her career this week, will become the second highest ranked Australian behind Daria Gavrilova next week, when she overtakes Sam Stosur, who is currently sidelined due to a wrist injury.
“I was really happy to go out there and play well today and execute my game plan,” Barty said after the win.
“This weather is exactly like Brisbane where I live.
“I'm trying to enjoy the US hard court season. I'm much happier, healthier and really enjoying my tennis right now. At the moment I can played free as a bird.
“Next year will be different with the points and the pressure.”
Barty will next play No.6 seed, Caroline Waozniacki, after the former world No.1 defeated Elena Vesnina 6-2, 6-4.
