New York: Venus Williams' 26th US Open singles campaign came to an early end after the American lost to fellow wild card Sofia Kenin in the first round.Williams, 46, was beaten 6-2, 7-6 (6) in a match that began shortly after midnight at Arthur Ashe Stadium following a lengthy delay caused by an earlier men's match.The contest started at 12:13 a.m., making it the latest match start in US Open history.Kenin took control of the opening set and won it in 32 minutes. Williams mounted a strong challenge in the second set, recovering from a 4-2 deficit to force a tie-break, but was unable to convert set points before Kenin secured victory.The match concluded at 2:01 a.m., marking the latest finish for a first-round match in US Open history.Williams is a two-time US Open singles champion, having won the title in 2000 and 2001, and has claimed seven Grand Slam singles titles during her career.Despite the singles defeat, Williams is expected to compete in the doubles tournament after receiving a wild-card entry alongside her sister Serena Williams.
