Sports
“Been Difficult”: Serena Williams Reveals Mental Challenges of Being Serena on Tennis Court
At 17 years of age, Serena Williams won her first Grand Slam title at the 1999 US Open. Now, at 39, she is equally passionate about winning her 24th Grand Slam title. Her latest campaign will start on Tuesday, June 29, in the Wimbledon Championships 2021.
Given the substantial reduction in competition after Naomi Osaka and Simona Halep’s withdrawal, it may sound easy; it is not. Moreover, Serena is one of the very few athletes who never dropped her highest level even after two decades. But what is her secret?
“Players play me that hard”: Serena Williams at the Championships 2021
Before tennis’ most-awaited tournament begins, Serena sat down with reporters to answer their questions. It led to a presentee inquiring about mental challenges, facing opponents coming at her with their 150%.
In response, the former World No.1 revealed that it has always been the same for her since she was 17 and won in Flushing Meadows. Moreover, it positively improved her game.
“It’s definitely made me better,” Serena said. “I’ve had a big X on my back since I won the US Open in 1999. When players play me that hard in every single tournament, every single match, every single Grand Slam, you just get better.”
LONDON, ENGLAND – JULY 10: Serena Williams of the United States celebrates after beating Camila Giorgi of Italy in the ladies’ quarter final at the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club on July 10, 2018 in London, England. (Photo by TPN/Getty Images)
Additionally, Serena also accepted that the high intensity drains not just her but her opponents too. Thus, she added that whoever wins against her usually loses in the next round.
“It’s been difficult mentally when someone might beat you, and they lose directly in the next round almost every time. At the end of the day, that’s why I’m Serena. So thanks,” she ended.
Also, the record seven-time champion has lost two consecutive Wimbledons, 2018 and 2019. Serena would be hoping for the third time charm to work.
Watch this story: Serena Williams And Venus Williams Best Wimbledon Moments
Serena’s chances for 24th Grand Slam in Wimbledon Championships 2021
Serena Williams of USA and Rafael Nadal of Spain with their winners trophies at the Wimbledon Championships 2010 Winners Ball at the InterContinental Park Lane Hotel on July 4, 2010 in London, England. (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)
Notably, the American professional’s two biggest contenders, Naomi Osaka and Simona Halep, have withdrawn from the tournament. Moreover, Wimbledon is the tournament that has brought her the most success.
Hopefully, Serena will realize her long-awaited 24th Grand Slam title this year. As per the draw, she will start her campaign against Belarusian Aliaksandra Sasnovich on 29th June.
Do you think she will achieve this milestone at Wimbledon Championships 2021?
The post “Been Difficult”: Serena Williams Reveals Mental Challenges of Being Serena on Tennis Court appeared first on EssentiallySports.
