‘Brainy’ Serena Williams’ Defying Response Once to Critics Who Showed Open Bias to Maria Sharapova – ‘Wait a Minute..’

Serena Williams and Maria Sharapova‘s rivalry goes back to 2004, and it was one of the most talked-about rivalries in the Open Era. And sometimes, critics can be harsh while portraying the abilities of each player. And the same was the case once when critics applauded the shot-making of the Russian star and forgot to acknowledge the American’s strengths. How did critics once upset the 23-time Grand Slam champion? And how did the American legend respond?

It all began with The Russian teenager defeating the defending Wimbledon Champion. And in response, the American tennis sensation vowed to get the better of Sharapova in every encounter. And, according to the H2H statistics, Williams did fulfill her vow! 

Were the ‘big serves’ the only reason that led Serena Williams to victory?

Serena Williams is known for her strong game and an even stronger mental strength. But the critics once failed to acknowledge the strong facets of Williams‘ game and based her dominance on just her ‘big serve.’ In a talk with Vogue, Williams opened up about her pregnancy, power, and return to the game; also mentioning the bizarre comparisons drawn between her and the Russian tennis ace, Maria Sharapova.

“I thought, I don’t hit as hard as a Monica Seles. In Australia last year, I read that Maria Sharapova’s backhand and forehand are as good or better than mine, and that the only reason I win is that my serve is bigger,” she revealed.

She further added, “I was like, wait a minute, please. I place my serve. And what about my volleys? My speed? I’m the player who’s hitting angles. I’m the player who moves you. I use my brain, and that’s really why I win.”

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Consequently, the 23-time Grand Slam champion does have an impressive head-to-head record against the Russian, 20-2. But Williams did lose to the Russian just once, in their next 21 encounters.

The last match between two tennis greats

The Russian tennis diva Maria Sharapova and the American tennis legend Serena Williams last met each other at the 2019 US Open. Williams had made a comeback after the birth of her daughter, and Sharapova was returning from a long break due to a failed drug test. In their last encounter, the 23-time Grand Slam champion cruised past the Russian in straight games with a score of 6-1, 6-1; in just 59 minutes. 

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Rivalries are necessary for any sport. They bring out the best in the players. However, did it help both tennis legends to better their games?  What do you think of the Maria Sharapova-Serena Williams rivalry?