Serena Williams Wins 17th Grand Slam, 5th U.S. Open

Serena Williams  has defeated Victoria Azarenka to win the 2013 U.S. Open. Williams prevailed in a three-set nail-biter 7-5, 6-7, 6-1.

“Victoria, you played unbelievable,” Williams told Azarenka on the court after the match. “What a great match. … It was an honor to play you.”

Williams continued to give her plucky opponent praise: “Vika’s such a great opponent. She’s such a fighter. … It was never over until match point.”

This is Williams’ 5th U.S. Open win, and her 17th Grand Slam title.

Williams’ prize, the largest money check in women’s sports,  is $3.6 million — $2.6 million for the Open title plus a $1 million bonus as the winner of the US Open Series.

Congrats to the Queen!