Venus Williams in US Open 2020.

Daily temperature checks. A “bubble” that requires adhering to strict guidelines. No fans in the stands.

To make an early bid for understatement of the fortnight, this 2020 US Open will be different.

But will the unusual precautions also produce an uncustomary champion?

Venus Williams would like to think yes, although recent history goes against such a story playing out for the 40-year-old competing in her 22nd US Open.

The seven-time major singles champion last reached the second week of a major three years ago in New York (semifinal).

She is also seven years older than the oldest US Open women’s singles champion in the Open era, 33-year-old Flavia Pennetta (2015).