Venus Williams. [Source: Reuters]

Two-time U.S. Open champion Venus Williams suffered her most lopsided loss in 24 appearances at the Grand Slam tournament with a 6-1 6-1 defeat at the hands of qualifier Greet Minnen in the first round on Tuesday.

The Belgian smacked 24 winners and saved all six break points she faced to dispatch the veteran American, whom she reveres.

Former world number one Williams’ best chance of climbing back into the contest came when she had a break point opportunity in the opening game of the second set but she failed to convert.

The hard-hitting Minnen would break the next game at love and cruise to victory in the match that lasted just 75 minutes.

Seven-time Grand Slam winner Williams, whose younger sister Serena retired after last year’s U.S. Open with 23 major titles to her name, said she was prepared to come to Flushing Meadows without her sibling playing.

“I was very much aware that Serena wouldn’t be playing in the tournament, so I think I was okay. I’ve had a chance to get used to that idea even before she retired,” she said.

“I kind of knew that was coming.”

Asked when she might hang up her racket, Williams was non-committal.

“I wouldn’t tell you,” she said with a smile.

“I don’t know. I don’t know why you’re asking.”