‘I don’t think any of the current top players would beat Serena Williams when she was at her best
Caroline Wozniacki, the former world No. 1, is set to make a comeback at the Australian Open after her retirement in 2020. Reflecting on the current state of women’s tennis, she acknowledges the formidable presence of the new generation in the top 10 but expresses doubt about their ability to surpass the legendary Serena Williams at her peak.
Wozniacki’s return places her in a different era of competition, facing emerging stars like Iga Swiatek, Aryna Sabalenka, Elena Rybakina, and Coco Gauff. She contrasts this with her earlier years when tennis luminaries such as Venus and Serena Williams, Maria Sharapova, Angelique Kerber, and Victoria Azarenka dominated the scene.
In response to the inevitable comparison between the two generations, Wozniacki emphasizes the challenge of equating the old top 10 with the new. She offers a unique perspective gained from her role in commentating, having observed and analyzed players she hadn’t encountered during her active career.
When specifically asked about Serena Williams, Wozniacki doesn’t mince words. She asserts that it’s challenging to compare anyone to Serena, especially during the periods when the American icon played her best tennis. Wozniacki, having faced numerous opponents throughout her career, maintains that no one from the current crop could have outplayed Serena during her prime.
Despite this acknowledgment, Wozniacki commends the current generation, highlighting their strength and high-level performances. She sees the evolution of tennis, with many players consistently performing at an elite level. Wozniacki believes that the sport is heading in the right direction, showcasing a depth of talent and competitive spirit among the new stars.
Acknowledging the greatness of the past, Wozniacki acknowledges that comparing today’s players to Serena is a daunting task. The old top 10 featured the greatest of all time in women’s tennis, making it an almost unattainable standard.
As Wozniacki prepares for her comeback at the Australian Open, she finds camaraderie with another former world No. 1, Angelique Kerber, who is also making a return after becoming a mother. Wozniacki appreciates the continuity of their presence in the sport, bridging the gap between the older and younger generations.
In conclusion, Wozniacki’s insights offer a nuanced perspective on the evolving landscape of women’s tennis. While she acknowledges the greatness of the past, she also recognizes the strength and competitiveness of the current generation, emphasizing the unique challenges each era presents. As she returns to the court, Wozniacki becomes a living link between the tennis legends of yesterday and the rising stars of today.
