No decision has been made about Serena Williams playing at the upcoming Australian Open, according to her coach Patrick Mouratoglou.
The 36-year-old hasn’t played on the tour since winning her her 23rd grand slam title at this year’s Melbourne Major in January. Since then Williams has given birth to her first child in September and recently married partner Alexis Ohanian.
Williams has already resumed training ahead of her return to the tour. It is unclear as to when she will begin her comeback, but there have been previous talk about her playing at the Australian Open. During an interview with Vogue magazine in August, Williams described her bid to play in the first major of 2018 as an ‘outrageous plan.’ The director of the tournament, Craig Tiley, has also indicated that she will be playing in the event.
“We have a special relationship with Serena, the Williams family, both her and Venus. She wants to come back in 2018 and defend her title. Obviously, at training now, there is several months to go and it will be up to her as far as where she is with her fitness.” Tiley told reporters earlier in the year.
Despite Tiley’s claims, Williams’ coach Mouratoglou has revealed that it is unclear if she will play in Australia. During an interview with CNN, the Frenchman confirmed that he will soon be travelling to Florida to train with Williams. Where they will evaluate the current state of her fitness ahead of her comeback.
“We will see how her body is reacting and how her tennis level is and we will take a decision regarding Australia.” Said Mouratoglou.
Next year Williams will be bidding to equal Margaret Court’s all-time record of winning 24 grand slam titles. She could also become one of a handful of players to win a major title after giving birth. Joining the likes of Court, Kim Clijsters and Evonne Goolagong.
The Australian Open will start on January 15th.
Honeymoon Paradise
As speculation about when Williams will return to action continue, she is currently enjoying a luxurious honeymoon on a private island with her husband. On Tuesday, she uploaded a video of where she is staying, accompanied with the caption ‘A week in paradise. Thanks @bookingcom for helping us find the perfect honeymoon villa.’
The newlywed couple are staying in Kamalame Cay, a private island in the Bahamas, with their two-month old daughter. According to People magazine, the Villa is 3,600 sq. ft. It is only accessible by helicopter, private boat or a FlyTropic seaplane. Some of the amenities available to them include a private butler, personal trainer and private chefs at any time of the day.
Also coming with 1,500-square-foot beachfront terrace with panoramic views of the Atlantic, Villas in the luxury resort can cost up to $35,000 (£26,000) per week. A total of nine villas is spread around the 96-acre island.
The accommodation also comes with private tennis courts, freshwater pool and a overwater spa.
