If you tuned into last night’s US Open action, you heard Wyclef Jean on the public address system as Venus Williams was warming up, and rappers Common & Pharrell when sister Serena took the court. Since 2002, tennis honchos have asked star players to speak up and tell the USTA what music they want played ahead of their matches. A hard-driving tune can help energize players, which is why for years Andy Roddick requested Metallica during his pre-game exercises (though lately, his taste has turned to “Jersey Boys“).

The Williams Sisters have been vocal about their musical choices, which have a personal connection for each. Serena, who has been socially linked to Common, likes to hear the singer’s “Announcement.” Venus, meanwhile, requests a song written just for her: Wyclef penned “Venus (I’m Ready)” after the two were paired for an upcoming episode of the Sundance Channel series “Iconoclasts.”
*newsday.com