New York: As she slipped to a 6-0, 6-1 US Open defeat to Serena Williams, Francesca Schiavone slumped into the arms of a ballboy on Arthur Ashe Stadium court.

The Italian veteran was looking at a double-bagel in her first round tie Monday after being given the run around by the defending champion when she embraced the startled youngster.

"I didn’t need a hug in that moment. I needed a game, points," said the 33-year-old former French Open champion.

"I went to the ballboy to say, `Well, that`s tough.` It was just a joke."

AFP