Williams bounces back, Mavericks dominate Royals in IPTL Manila

MANILA, Philippines – Serena Williams on Sunday, December 6, recovered from the shocking 6-4 loss to 23-year-old Japanese Kurumi Nara in Japan two days ago with a 6-3 victory over Ana Ivanovic on Day One of the 2015 International Premier Tennis League (IPTL) at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.

The women’s world No. 1 – who thrilled Manila fans when she danced to the tune of “Trap Queen” by Fetty Wap on court – controlled the women’s singles set, only allowing Serbian Ivanovic to come close at 4-3 before running away with it.

“I love the crowd here. I feel so excited,” said Williams, who scored her final point of the night on a superb service ace. “It feels good to be back here. I’m so glad I’m actually part of the team (Mavericks) this year.” (It’s her second time to play in Manila.)

Williams’ victory contributed to the Philippine Mavericks’ total 29-18 win over the OBI UAE Royals to continue their winning ways from Japan.

The Mavericks, which arrived in Manila in third place with a 52-50 games win-loss record, cruised to an early 12-6 lead in the first two sets thanks to victories of Mark Philippoussis and Milos Raonic. 

Australian Philippoussis, who had a career-high world No. 8 ranking, blasted Croatian Goran Ivanisevic, 6-2, in the men’s legend’s singles.

Youngster Raonic from Canada then overcame Czech veteran Tomas Berdych, 6-4, in men’s singles for the quick advantage favoring the Mavericks.

Daniel Nestor and Kristina Mladenovic came alive for the Royals in mixed doubles, dominating to start that 3rd set before the duo of Williams and Treat Huey roared back to force a shootout, 6-5.

The Mavericks tied the shootout at 6-all before slipping as the Royals finished things off 7-6 for their lone set win.

Richard Gasquet and Edouard Roger-Vasselin then wrapped up the Mavericks’ win with a 6-3 men’s doubles triumph over Nestor and Berdych in the final set. – Rappler.com