Former French Open champion Mary Pierce hails Serena Williams - UBITENNIS

Former French Open champion Mary Pierce hails Serena Williams

By Pawan Atri
3 Min Read

Former World No. 3 Mary Pierce has hailed the exceptional qualities of 23-time Grand Slam champion Serena Williams, labeling the American as an ‘incredible competitor’.

Talking to Indian media outlet Times of India, Pierce, and a two-time Major winner called for a relook of the current seeding rule after Serena wasn’t seeded for the upcoming French Open, which will get underway in Paris on Sunday.

Even though, Pierce didn’t put Serena among the favourites to lift the trophy in the French capital, she backed the former World No. 1 to make a deep run in the tournament.

“When I watched Serena play in the WTA finals (as a commentator), I was so impressed by the deep burning desire she had to win every point. It was unlike any other player I’ve ever watched. She was talking and urging herself. She is an incredible competitor.” 

Pierce added: “If you are injured or you have a child, you have protected rankings that can be used for certain number of tournaments. They do not use that to seed you. I think this is where the WTA could possibly have a look and consider using the protected ranking for seeding as well. Serena could now play the No. 1 seed of the French Open and that would be like a Grand Slam final in the first round, which is kind of crazy and unfortunate for both players.”

“I think she is not yet back in form and clay is not her best surface. I would not put her as a favourite, but I will expect her to go deep in the tournament, just because she is Serena. Some people wonder if she can be the same player she was before. Now, she has become a mom, she has a nurturing side, a softer side. Will she be a killer on the court as before? Nonetheless, I have never seen in any other player such a deep burning desire to win every point. I will keep my eyes on her more for Wimbledon.”

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