At the age of 34 Serena Williams has no plans of quitting tennis as she prepares for her fourth Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro.
The world No.1 will be targeting gold in both the singles and doubles competitions. Already a four-time gold medallist, Williams needs to medal twice in Rio de Janeiro to become the most decorated tennis player in Olympic history. The record is currently held by Great Britain’s Kathleen McKane Godfree, who won five medals between 1920-1924. Williams isn’t the only player that could become the greatest ever, her sister Venus could also break the 93-year-old record.
If Williams does achieve the historic milestone, some might argue that it would be the best way for her to end her career. On the other hand, the world No.1 has no intention of leaving the WTA Tour after recently equalling Steffi Graf’s record of winning 22 grand slam titles at the Wimbledon Championships.
“I love what I do every day and enjoy being on the court. I enjoy competing,” said Williams.
“I just don’t see a time when I say I don’t want to do this anymore. I always give my maximum and that’s what I bring to the court.”
Williams has reached 90 WTA singles finals on the WTA Tour, winning titles in 70 of them. Some of those wins have seen her break numerous records and barriers in the world of sport. Nevertheless, the world No.1 has said that her Olympic triumph is something that stands out in her career.
“We all dream of the Grand Slams and winning them, but the Olympics are different,” Williams said in Rio.
“The first gold medal I won was something I appreciated more than a lot of my trophies.
“It’s really great to have another opportunity to win the title. Having won it already definitely takes the pressure off.”
The draw from the singles and doubles competition will take place on Thursday. Proceedings at the newly build Olympic Tennis Centre will get underway on Saturday.
Serena Williams’ Olympic record
2000 Sydney games
Singles – didn’t participate
Doubles – gold medallist
2004 Athens Games
Didn’t participate due to a left knee injury
2008 Beijing Games
Singles – quarter-finals
Doubles – gold medallist
2012 London Games
Singles – gold medallist
Doubles – gold medallist
Total win-loss record in the Olympic Games = 24-1
