Stosur says time off due to illness did her well

Samantha Stosur, who just won her first Grand Slam singles title at the U.S. Open, tells API that her recovery period from a series of illnesses gave her a second chance at tennis. "It was a long, slow process, but it gave me the chance to re-evaluate my goals and leave no stone unturned to achieve them,” said Stosur, who came down with Lyme disease and viral meningitis four years ago at the age of 23. "To achieve Grand Slam success has been my goal since I was eight years old. It’s easy to doubt your ability sometimes as it’s a long journey. I’ve always worked hard to become the best player I can be, and to believe in myself."