Shahar PeerShahar Peer, Israel’s top ranked female tennis pro was two points away from defeating Serena Williams at the Australian Open this morning before the American came back for a 3-6, 6-2, 8-6 win. Peer, 19 and a part-time soldier in the IDF will be ranked at least 14th in the world. Her match was televised live in Israel at 4 am.

Williams was aware of the stir Peer, the only Israeli women’s player in the top 100 except for veteran Anna Smashnova at No. 63, has created in her country… “Her performance and her play for all of Israel is great,” said Williams. “I couldn’t be more happy for her because you have just one person going the lone ride. I think she’s doing a great job… “She’s obviously a solid player. She obviously has a very bright future. I think Israelis might be up four in the morning a lot more.”

So close! Peer for her part lost graciously, praising Williams:

“It was 4-all in the third, I had three break points,” said Peer, 19. “She aced me every time, on two break points. You can do nothing. You can just clap hands for her”

Well, we can clap hands for you too Shahar. Good job and good luck next time – I’m certain she will have a long and promising career.

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About the author

ck

Founder and Publisher of Jewlicious, David Abitbol lives in Jerusalem with his wife, newborn daughter and toddler son. Blogging as "ck" he's been blocked on twitter by the right and the left, so he's doing something right.

3 Comments

  • Anna Smashnova.

    Could there possibly be a better name for a tennis player?

  • CK,

    thanks for giving this girl some coverage, she’s really good. hopefully she can get in the top ten here pretty soon.

    are things pretty hyped about her in Israel?