Serena Williams is a proven superstar of tennis. She has ruled the court for over two decades now. The 40-year-old recently made a long-awaited comeback to the tour. However, it didn’t go well for her as she lost in the first round of the tournament. While the legend today gets all the love and support she deserves, back in 1999, she along with her sister Venus, had some problems with a few players in the tennis community.

While many consider it was because of their outspoken father, Richard Williams, who usually made fiery statements. Venus and Serena Williams’ former coach, Rick Macci believe it was because of jealousy.

Rick Macci defends Williams sisters

Amidst the controversy, one of the most renowned coaches of America and the former coach of the Williams sisters came in defense of girls. The American said his pupils are getting all that hate because others are jealous of their achievements.

“There’s an enormous amount of jealousy regarding Venus and Serena,” he said.

Further, he also explained the possible reason behind the jealousy. “They’ve got the biggest contracts, except for Kournikova, and they’re not the most social people on the tour, they play and they’re out. They’re not afraid to talk a little smack, and women’s tennis didn’t really have that. It has also made other players step up and say how they really feel,” he added.

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We can’t say who was right and wrong in the above situation, but Serena and Venus successfully left those things in the past and got their names etched on the history books with their remarkable achievements.

Next step for Serena Williams

Serena Williams had a disappointing return to the tour. Playing after almost one year, she looked rusty against an opponent almost half of her age. However, the 40-year-old has not lost her hopes yet. Visibly disappointed after the loss, Serena still believes she can do well. Further, speaking about her plans, the 23-time Grand Slam champion hinted at playing at the US Open later this year.

“There’s definitely lots of motivation to get better and to play at home,” she said.

Watch this story: Organisers reveal a bizarre reason for Serena Williams skipping Wimbledon Centenary celebration 

Now that the Wimbledon Championships 2022 has ended, fans are eager to see their favorite superstar back in action.