WTT 2012: Venus Williams, Kastles improve to 22-0

Washington, D.C., July 16, 2012 – Venus Williams and the Washington Kastles defeated the Boston Lobsters, 20-11, for their sixth straight World Team Tennis (WTT) win in 2012 and 22nd in a row dating back to last year.

Williams ran a children’s tennis clinic and addressed the media prior to teaming with Leander Paes in mixed doubles and Anastasia Rodionova in women’s doubles, and playing against Irina Falconi in women’s singles.  Although she was swept by Falconi, 5-0, in her last match, the commanding lead that she and the Kastles built earlier in the evening held up.

“The Kastles is really a great example of a role model for many of the WTT teams,” Williams said before the match.  “You couldn’t ask for a better owner than Mark Ein.  He loves tennis, he wants to see the sport grow.”

“It also helps that he knows how to pick a good team,” Williams added with a laugh.  “It’s been amazing – I love playing for this team.”

Guests in the audience included First Lady Michelle Obama, and her daughters Sasha and Malia.  Obama last saw the Kastles play in 2011, also against Boston.

Photo Gallery: Washington Kastles d. Boston Lobsters, 20-11

all photos by Kwai Chan / Meniscus Magazine

Video: Excerpts from Venus Williams’ press conference

video by Kwai Chan / Meniscus Magazine