Halep stuns Williams in Singapore

SINGAPORE, Oct 22 (AFP): Simona Halep stunned Serena Williams 6-0, 6-2 at the WTA Finals Wednesday, dealing the world number one her heaviest defeat in 16 years and denting her chances of a third straight year-end title.

The diminutive Romanian exploited some horrendous serving by Williams to clinch her first win against the world number one and go top of Red Group in the eight-player season finale in Singapore.

The 23-year-old Halep was the aggressor all the way, leaving Williams, 10 years her senior and the oldest player in Singapore, frustrated with her pinpoint placement and fearless passing shots.

"Yes, I think it was my best match in my life," said the world number four, the first Romanian to qualify for the tournament since 1998.

"I'm a little bit surprised, but I knew before the match that I have nothing to lose, just play. She's the best player in the world, she's number one.