Simona Halep: Slam champion ‘relaxed’ ahead of US Open

Grand Slam success has lifted the weight of pressure off Simona Halep’s shoulders and she is looking to take advantage at the US Open.

The world No.1 ranking has changed hands nine times between six different players since the start of 2017, and it has become the norm for the majority of the top 10 to go into a Slam with the chance of ending it on top of the pile.

But, whatever happens over the next two weeks in New York, Halep is guaranteed to end the tournament ranked No.1 after establishing herself as the best player in the world.

NEWS: Halep, Serena and Venus in same quarter

With Serena Williams still finding her way back to the top following childbirth and the rest of her rivals inconsistent, 26-year-old Halep has led the way.

After losing a heartbreaking third slam final at the Australian Open, she finally lifted one of the sport’s biggest prizes at the French Open and has impressed so far on the North American hard courts, winning the title in Montreal before losing to Kiki Bertens in the final in Cincinnati last weekend.

Always great practise with @Simona_Halep pic.twitter.com/XBrmUgZ17V

— Aga Radwanska (@ARadwanska) August 23, 2018

“Inside myself something changed. I’m more relaxed. I feel thankful for everything I achieved,” the Romanian said.

“These two were my dreams, to be number one in the world and to win a Grand Slam. Always I say number one in the world without a grand slam, you are not a real No.1.

“After the French Open, I really started to believe that I’m a real No.1. So I think it made me more confident, made me more relaxed. I have a different desire now when I’m on court. I enjoy it more.

“I don’t feel the pressure any more because I like to be in this position. It’s the best thing to be there.”

Last year, Halep was the unlucky player who drew an unseeded Maria Sharapova in the first round on her Grand Slam return, and the Russian played an inspired match to claim victory.

Halep faces another tough opponent, albeit less high profile, this time in Estonia’s Kaia Kanepi and has both Serena and Venus Williams in her section of the draw.

Halep does not look past her first-round opponent but has been informed by Australian coach Darren Cahill that the draw has again not been favourable.

“Darren told me it’s the toughest part,” she said. “I think it’s enough.”