Serena Williams and Venus Williams are two tennis greats who have inspired thousands of young stars around the world during their prime. Even now, when the elder sister is in the twilight of her career, and the younger sister has retired, they continue to inspire players. Recently, a Junior grand slam champion managed to win her first-ever Indian Wells Masters qualifying round. 

Clervie Ngounoue, a 17-year-old American star, won the Junior Wimbledon along with a Junior doubles French Open in 2023. Now, she is moving up as she plays in the qualifying rounds of WTA Masters. 

Clervie Ngounoue “wanted to put” Serena and Venus Williams’ photo on her walls

Ngounoue is a young tennis player born in Washington, DC, to Cameroonian parents. Ngounoue had natural skills for the sport from a young age. Her family saw her talent and encouraged her to pursue her dream of becoming a professional tennis player. Ngounoue recently won her first-ever Indian Wells Masters qualifying round against Alize Cornet in straight sets. 

The youngster has stated that she loves the Williams sister duo and has wanted to put their posters on her walls. “Serena and Venus Williams are my source of inspiration and motivation. I wanted to put their photos on my wall all the time and it’s those people I want to follow in their footsteps.“

Her primary coach has been her father for a long time in her career. As per her website, “I am trained by my Dad Aimé Ngounoue, Jermaine Jenkins, an American tennis coach for players such as Naomi Osaka, having previously been one of Venus Williams’ hitting partners, and with the support of Mary Pierce, Tennis Hall of Fame and Twice Grand Slam Champion.“

Read More – Indian Wells 2024 Draw: Where Is Venus Williams At? Everything to Know About Her Matchups

Ngounoue currently trains under the guidance of the same coach as the 23-time grand slam champion. The French coach also talked about her progress in his academy.

Mouratoglou dives into the progress of Ngounoue  

Ngounoue currently trains at the Patrick Mouratoglou Academy under the guidance of Serena Williams’ former coach. “Beyond her natural qualities and the power of her game, I was immediately impressed by her determination, personality and maturity. I’m convinced she has everything it takes to reach the highest level. Her results already confirm my expectations,” confirms Patrick Mouratoglou.

The teenage American player has shown great progress in the sport and managed to win her first qualifying bout of the Indian Wells Masters 6-2, 6-3. She is not set to play against Taylor Townsend in the second qualifying bout. Her performance has been excellent so far, and the American star will hope to continue playing to the best of her abilities. Will she be able to reach the main draw?