Caroline Wozniacki is well known for her accomplishments on the court. There has been a buzz around her lately as she announced her return to the tour. With the US Open around the corner, she will be looking to make a statement with her racket. Talking about US Open, let us take a trip down memory lane and recall an embarrassing moment involving the former World No. 1.
The year was 2014 and the Dane was struggling to find form. Entering New York on the back of only one title, her chances were too bleak. However, she put all the critics to bed by making it to the finals. Despite making the finals of the slam, Wozniacki was on the verge of missing out on her prize money. But why was she close to missing out on the paycheck?
When Caroline Wozniacki almost suffered a $1.45 million loss
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The final was relatively short as the Dane succumbed to Serena Williams‘ fierce tennis. It ended in a 6-3, 6-3 win for the then World No. 1. Wozniacki did not intend to spend much time at the Flushing Meadows after the final. She completed her press conference and rushed back with her runner-up plate. However, she forgot to pick up something vital.
The Dane left behind her $1.45 million runner-up paycheck at the Flushing Meadows. “About 30 minutes later, however, she arrived back at the tennis center, a look of mild panic on her face,” said Monica Langley of The Wall Street Journal. “‘I forgot to pick up my prize money,'” Wozniacki said.
#TodayInHistory @usopen Sept. 8, 2014: Women's US Open: Serena Williams beats Caroline Wozniacki (6-3, 6-3) pic.twitter.com/GAVbK6VE65
— A Tweep Different from… (@olivertwittee) September 8, 2015
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That could have been a massive loss for the Dane but she was quick to retrieve the check. According to Bleacher Report, her agent had confirmed that, during the same time, she did not inquire about the extra $500,000 that she could have fetched with sponsorship deals. “I have enough to eat, buy nice shoes,” Wozniacki said. “For me, it’s about the tennis and the trophies. I’m not motivated by money.”
Well, the 2014 US Open fortnight was a rollercoaster ride for Wozniacki. Now that she has announced her comeback, she plays her first slam match since retirement at this year’s US Open. Prior to the US Open, the former World No.1 will also be playing the Rogers Cup after receiving a wildcard.
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How far do you think Wozniacki can go in these two tournaments? Can she turn back the clock and trigger some upsets? Do let us know in the comments.
Watch this story: 43 YO Venus Williams Reveals ‘Deja Vu’ Moment for the First Time as He Winning Comeback Fuels Wimbledon Hopes