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via Reuters

via Reuters

American tennis pro Alycia Parks has in the past been vocal about her affinity for Serena Williams. The fans and pundits have constantly drawn comparisons between the two due to their similar playing styles. Williams, for her part, has been vocal in her support and has been instrumental in inspiring Parks to excel in the sport.

As a testament to their deep relationship and Williams’ legendary status, Parks declared Williams as the best tennis player to have ever set foot on the court.

‘Definitely Serena’ – Alycia Parks settles the GOAT debate

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Parks recently declared Williams as the greatest of all time or the GOAT in one of her ‘Ask me a question’ segments on her Instagram story. The fan asked her who according to her is the “GOAT” tennis player among male and female tennis players. The American gave her concrete opinion on the matter, “Definitely Serena”

Parks serving is similar to that of Williams. She has admittedly modeled herself, her personality, and her playing style around Williams. Parks’ life details have uncanny similarities with Williams’ – she has an older sister, Mikayla, and her father, Michael, who has coached them, just like Richard Williams, Serena’s father.

Stepping into the spotlight as a teenager Parks had the opportunity to act as Serena Williams’ body double in Gatorade commercials. The advertisement showcased Williams’ unparalleled athleticism and determination, capturing her iconic playing style with precision. Parks skillfully emulated Williams’ movements and demeanor.

Parks was also recently seen supporting her idol at the launch of her latest cosmetic brand, Wyn Products. She posed with both the Williams sisters, hyping them up. It’s important to note that their relationship dates long back as told by Parks and her family on the Tennis Channel.

A call from Serena Williams inspires Alycia Parks

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Opening up about how far back their association goes, Parks told The Tennis Channel about a phone call she got from Williams when she was just 7 years old. “I remember getting a call from Serena, just talking to her on the phone. I don’t remember exactly what she said but they were very positive words,” says Parks in a video tweeted by the outlet.

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In the same video Parks’ elder sister, Mikayla recalls that they were traveling in a car and therefore could hear Williams’ voice. Parks’ father was also featured in the video and said, “Honestly Serena made a big difference in their lives by calling. They knew they could beat anyone or they can accomplish anything. And she told her to play hard and stay with her goals. So that meant a lot to us.”

Despite the similarities in playing style and their special bond, Parks wasn’t able to emulate the kind of meteoric success the Williams’ sister saw. However, with time on her hands, she can work to make her idol proud!