Venus Williams targets Hong Kong win to seal ticket to lucrative season-ending WTA Finals

American legend says she needs to do well in the Prudential Hong Kong Open to qualify for Singapore tournament at the end of month

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Published: 1:15am, 11 Oct 2015Updated: 10:27am, 30 Jun 2016

Hong Kong's skyscrapers provide a backdrop for Venus Williams as she poses ahead of the Hong Kong Open. Photos: Sam Tsang

Seven-time grand slam winner Venus Williams knows the Prudential Hong Kong Tennis Open represents her last chance to make the WTA Finals in Singapore this season, but recognises this hurdle will be a huge test at the end of a stellar campaign.

A deep run into the the Hong Kong Open draw could earn the 35-year-old enough points on the Road to Singapore standings to make the lucrative end-of-season showdown.

There's a really strong field here. I hope to be one of the top eight. This is my last chance to do well. There's some pressure, but that's the job

Venus Williams

The top nine players will qualify with Serena Williams, the world No 1, already announcing that she will not be competing. But a relaxed Venus said she can handle the added pressure.

"I want to win here but it wont be easy," said the American. "There's a really strong field here. I hope to be one of the top eight. This is my last chance to do well. There's some pressure, but that's the job. It's about how you handle it."

WATCH: Seven-time grand slam singles winner Venus Williams discuss life after tennis

Speaking ahead of the main draw for the Open, which kicks off at Victoria Park on Monday, the seven-time grand slam winner sympathised with fellow competitors who have succumbed to the gruelling schedule, but said the key to her own continued success was pacing the season.