Recently, Serena Williams was training on a clay court with former ATP star Pere Riba and fellow countrywoman Varvara Lepchenko. However, at that time, there was no indication of where she might be participating. Now, Patrick Mouratoglou, her coach, has indicated that the American might play at the Italian Open 2021 in two weeks.

Coach indicates Serena Williams might play Italian Open 2021

In an interview with L’Equipe, the French coach revealed that Serena would soon come to his academy in France. He added that her aim in coming there is to prepare for her clay-court campaign in May.

Besides the 39-year-old, most top players are competing in lead-up tournaments to the French Open 2021. Thus, Patrick expects Serena to play the Italian Open 2021 before moving to Roland Garros.

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Serena Williams will not play at the Mutua Madrid Open, starting on 30 April. She has withdrawn from the tournament due to personal reasons.

Read More: Serena Williams To Skip Madrid Open 2021 After Controversial Comments From Tournament Owner

Therefore, it becomes vital for the 23-time Grand Slam winner to participate in at least one competitive tournament before Paris. The WTA 1000 Italian Open will give her a correct understanding of her preparations.

The last time Serena played on clay was at the 2020 French Open, where she pulled out from her second-round match citing an Achilles injury. Similarly, the American last played in Rome in 2019, where she withdrew in the middle of the tournament due to pain in her left knee.

Williams, who is eyeing her 24 Grand Slam title, is looking confident this year. If she maintains her top fitness level, she will undoubtedly be a favorite in every tournament.

Read More: All Injuries Serena Williams Suffered During her Career so Far

Serena’s 2021 season so far

Serena started her 2021 season impeccably, delivering some classic dominating performances in WTA 500 Melbourne. Unfortunately, she had to pull out from the semifinal match against Ashleigh Barty because of a right shoulder injury.

Afterward, the 39-year-old Williams carried formidable steam throughout the Australian Open 2021. However, she met her foe, Japanese Naomi Osaka, in the semifinal and lost to her in straight sets.

Since then, the four-time Olympic Gold medallist has not returned to the tennis court. Hopefully, Patrick’s expectations will turn to reality, and fans will soon see her in Rome.

WTA 1000 Italian Open will run from May 9 to 16, 2021. Also, after a week’s postponement, the French Open will begin on May 30, 2021.

Also Read: Is Serena Williams’ Husband Alexis Ohanian a Billionaire?