Serena Williams started her 2021 season with a strong performance at the Australian Open. The tenth seed, Williams reached the semi-finals of the contest, giving away just one set. However, Serena’s search for her 24th Grand Slam was ended by eventual champion, Naomi Osaka.
From then, her season wasn’t particularly remarkable till she entered the Wimbledon Championship as a favorite for the title. Unfortunately, the American legend was forced to retire in her first-round clash against Aliaksandra Sasnovich. Since then, Williams hasn’t played competitively and continues to recover from her injury.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Patrick Mouratoglou on Serena Williams’ US Open withdrawal
Patrick Mouratoglou has now been coaching Serena Williams since 2012. The two have enjoyed a successful partnership, winning 10 titles in their time together. Recently at Indian Wells, the coach shared insight about how Serena felt about having to withdraw from the final Grand Slam of the year.
Watch this story: The Journey of Roger Federer to the Elite Billionaire’s Club
When asked about what Serena’s future holds, he said, “That’s a good question and I would love to answer you, but I don’t know. I left her before the US Open, she was devastated because her injury didn’t give her the opportunity to play.”
Mouratoglou talks about Serena’s future
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
The big question in everyone’s minds, however, is when will Serena make her return to the courts. Patrick made an honest admission that he didn’t have much information since it was an obviously personal decision for the American.
He added, “I told her, listen, take time off and take the time to think what you want to do in the future, if you want to go for one more year two more years three more years or stop, it’s up to you it’s very personal. And actually we’re gonna discuss soon so I’ll let you know as soon as I know.”
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
While she’s been away from the courts, Serena has been thoroughly enjoying her time off with her family. Hopefully, she will make a comeback soon to try again for the elusive 24th Grand Slam.
ALSO READ: “She Feels the Pressure”: Patrick Mouratoglou Opens Up on His Experience of Coaching Serena Williams