French Open: Serena Williams crashes out in third round

The former world number one's quest for a 24th grand slam title was put on hold

French Open: Serena Williams crashes out in third round Serena Williams reacts during her third round match against Sofia Kenin | AFP

Former world number one Serena Williams was knocked out of the French Open after she was defeated by Sofia Kenin 6-2 7-5 in the third round on Saturday.

Serena, chasing a record-equalling 24th grand slam title, had a shaky start and could not recover to gain a foothold in the match. Her loss at Roland Garros on Saturday is her earliest grand slam exit since 2014. Kenin made most of Serena's unforced errors to make her way into the fourth round, where she will face Australia's Ashleigh Barty.

After her victory over the 23-time grand slam champion, Kenin was booed by a few spectators. Serena left the Court Philippe Chatrier to a standing ovation.

“It's a lot of emotion, she's such a great player, a true champion, so much respect for her,” Kenin said. “Playing against Serena, you've got to fight for every point, she's such a tough player. I'm so happy with this win.”

The 20-year-old American piled the pressure on Serena, who won her last grand slam title at the 2017 Australian Open. Kenin, who won her maiden singles WTA title this season in Hobart, lost her composure a few times before regaining it to win in straight sets.

At 5-2, Kenin served the set and thought she had bagged it, but Serena returned long, only for the umpire to rule her serve out. The 35th ranked player hit the netcord with her racket, causing the crowd to react in derision. She took the set in the second go.

Serena won the first two points in the second game, but Kenin snatched the seventh consecutive game. Kenin showed more nerves when Serena broke to level 3-3. However, she got into the game and claimed the decisive break for 6-5 with a quick service return. Serena sent a backhand long, handing the match to Kenin.

(With inputs from agencies)