Former World No. 1 Serena Williams exited the Australian Open 2021, following her defeat to Naomi Osaka in the semifinal. The Japanese starlet went on to win her fourth Grand Slam title. It was a disappointing loss for the American player who was keen on lifting her much-awaited 24th Grand Slam title. 

During her post-match press conference, Serena was asked if this was a ‘farewell’ for her. She answered by saying that if it was indeed a farewell, she wouldn’t bring it to anyone’s notice. Soon after, she couldn’t hold back her tears and ended up leaving the room. 

Patrick Mouratoglou: “I don’t think Serena Williams will stop until she wins a Major”

Recently, Serena’s coach provided an update regarding her retirement and quashed all rumors, stating that the 39-year-old player is far from done. He said, “I don’t think she will stop until she at least wins a Grand Slam, because she came back to win Grand Slams. She doesn’t quit… She’s dedicated all her life to tennis since she was a kid. So the day she will retire, she will feel like she’s giving an end to 40 years of life.”

Patrick explained that for Serena to win her next Major, she needs to believe in herself. He remains optimistic about her chances and felt that if she didn’t believe in herself, she wouldn’t have gone through all the hard work that she puts in. 

Mouratoglou spoke on her commitment and stated, “I have to believe it and she has to believe it, too. If she [doesn’t], she would stop… She would never even start that if she didn’t think she was able to win a Grand Slam. That’s how Serena is really exceptional. She puts the standards so high for herself, and she finds a way to match those standards, whatever she does.”

As the season has recently begun, there are still three Grand Slam tournaments left on the calendar year. Williams will look to capitalize on them for the remainder of the season. 

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