‘Time is not her friend’: Martina Navratilova on Serena Williams’ hopes for record-tying 24th Grand Slam
Former tennis ace Martina Navratilova says Serena Williams’ quest for a record-tying 24th Grand Slam title has limitations, and stresses that “time is not her friend,” as her body “is still ageing,” even when at rest.
The 18-time Grand Slam champ said the enforced pause in the tennis season caused by the Covid-19 pandemic would have a serious impact on Williams, given that she’s been forced to sit out a major part of the season.
“Time is not her friend. Yes, she gets to rest, but her body is still ageing, even though she’s resting. I think, emotionally, it would be really hard to stay motivated and keep your routine,” Navratilova said.
“But I know she’s still fired up and wants that record. She’s been going after it for a while now.”
The 38-year-old American has already taken part in four major finals and the US Open since returning from maternity leave, and is desperate to match Margaret Court’s long-standing record of 24 Grand Slam titles.
