Former world No. 1 and American tennis great Serena Williams announced her retirement after this year’s US Open. The 23-time Grand Slam winner’s dominance on the court and subsequent record-setting performances will be remembered for years to come. It’s safe to say that Serena Williams has accomplished almost everything there is to accomplish in the sport.

However, someone doesn’t seem to agree with Serena Williams being termed as a ‘GOAT’. During a recent interview, former American tennis player James Blake was seen involved in some heated discussion and serious exchange of words in favor of Serena Williams.

A debate on whether Serena Williams is the real ‘GOAT’

James Blake is in agreement with the fact that Serena Williams is one of the greatest of all times player. The tennis star was seen live from the US Open on August 31, 2022. He and Chris Russo argued over whether or not Serena Williams was the greatest player of all time.

For which the 42 years old said, “Mad dog, you shouldn’t have shown up today, man. I don’t know what you’re thinking. You’re saying she’s not the GOAT in women’s tennis?” 

He further went on to add, “I’m talking about. I’m putting her in the category of GOAT athlete of all time. Not no qualifiers, not female, not tennis player. She’s up there with Jordan and Woods and Gretzky. So I don’t know what you’re, who you’re trying to compare her to, or what you’re talking about and saying that she’s not the greatest of all time in women’s tennis.” 

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Serena Williams, the winner of 23 Grand Slam titles, was defeated by Australian Ajla Tomljanovic in the third round of the US Open 2022. The 40-year-old former tennis champion from the United States lost 5-6, 7-6 (7), 6-1 in what is widely believed to be her final match at the Grand Slam tournament. 

James Blake recalls his past good memories with ‘GOAT’ Serena

Back in January 2021, Blake reflected on his 2003 victory with Serena at the Hopman Cup. Even though a lot has changed in the time since then, Blake maintains that Serena is still the best player.

In addition, the Hopman Cup victory alongside Serena is a fond memory for Blake, who has dubbed her the greatest of all time (GOAT). Blake also had a very successful outing at the tournament. He played Lleyton Hewitt in the Hopman Cup final and won. Then, in the deciding match of the final, he and Serena prevailed over Hewitt and Alicia Molik to take home the trophy.

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