Serena Williams hails Tiger Woods' influence as she continues her US Open run

By George Ramsay, CNN

Updated 1144 GMT (1944 HKT) September 1, 2022

Serena Williams defeated Anett Kontaveit in the second round of the US Open.

(CNN)It was a performance that had Tiger Woods on his feet and pumping his fist — a sight usually witnessed on the 18th hole of a golf course, rather than the stands of Arthur Ashe Stadium.

Serena Williams progressed to the third round of the US Open in what could be the final singles tournament of her career, beating Estonian second seed Anett Kontaveit 7-6 2-6 6-2 on Wednesday evening. Williams was buoyed and cheered on every point by the packed home crowd. That included Woods, who watched the drama unfold with his partner, Erica Herman, from Williams' player's box. «It was a privilege to watch greatness. Congrats @serenawilliams,» the 15-time major champion tweeted after the match.Later, Williams paid tribute to Woods and his influence over the later stages of her tennis career. Read More«He's one of the reasons I'm here, one of the main reasons I'm still playing,» she told reporters. «We talked a lot. He was really trying to get me motivated. There are a few people, but we were like: 'OK, we can do this together, you know?'»Woods wasn't the only sporting great to offer words of encouragement. «Not done yet @serenawilliams,» tweeted Steph Curry, while fellow NBA star Chris Paul said he's «never seen anything like what Serena Williams is doing… I'm a fan and enjoying every minute.»Eye of the Tiger… Woods has offered advice to Williams in the later stages of her career. Having announced last month that she will «evolve away from tennis» after this year's US Open, Williams' farewell to tennis has clearly captured the imagination of the wider sporting world and beyond. «Thank you