Venus Williams and her doubles partner Leylah Fernandez saw their hopes for the US Open title come to an end in the quarterfinals. They wowed attendees with their highly energizing live set and the Honey Deuce, the tourney’s signature cocktail. The Honey Deuce, with its refreshing combination of vodka, lemonade and raspberry liqueur, is one of the tournament’s signature cocktails. Since its debut, it has become a staple at the annual event and frequently accompanies high-profile matches.
While Williams and Fernandez had an impressive team on the other side in their quarterfinal matchup, they stole the show with their energy and skill. After nearly two years away from the sport, Williams said she was immensely proud of herself that she could return to such an elite level.
“I think what I’m proudest of is it’s not easy to come off the bench,” she stated. Even the non-injury veteran athlete would understand the unique challenge of trying to come back from such an extended layoff. Uh-oh, it really isn’t, and I’ve never gone through a layoff this long. With it came new challenges that, frankly, I wasn’t prepared for in a myriad of ways.
Even though she didn’t make it to the semifinals, Williams underscored the message that she remains all in on her game. “I’m very proud that I stayed myself. I didn’t try to play another game. I didn’t try to play it safe. I went for it, and that’s who I am. I go for it. When you go for it, good things happen. Perhaps I didn’t get there this time, but I know who I am,” she added.
The Honey Deuce also recently featured in a CNN story that ran in the lead up to the US Open, focusing on the cocktail’s popularity at the tournament. Those distinctively bright colors can be seen on the drink’s devoted portrait, aptly titled “usopen-honey-deuce-thumb-4.jpg.” We’d still be in the thick of it, had CNN not produced a guide called Here’s how to make it, so fans could try making it at home.
Taylor Townsend, who was doubles partners with Williams throughout the tournament, called her resilient and experienced teammate a fighter. “Venus is a legend and understands and knows how to win and figure things out when things aren’t going her way,” Townsend remarked. Her happiness with their performance came through even as she absorbed the bad news. “I’m really happy with the way that we played today.”
Whether Williams or Fernandez takes home the title, their runs in this year’s competition have sparked a turning point for the tournament. Their tasty legacy is epitomized by the Honey Deuce. This cocktail is a fitting tribute to the competitive spirit found at the US Open. It captures the unique sense of fellowship that permeates the whole event.
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