Li set sights on world No.1 spot

Originally published on 07/03/14

Li, who claimed her second Grand Slam title in Melbourne, is up to No.2 in the world, albeit nearly 6000 points behind Serena Williams.

The 32-year-old struggled with her form in the aftermath of her maiden Grand Slam title at Roland Garros in 2011, and even considered retirement last summer.

However, since hiring coach Carlos Rodriguez, who helped Justine Henin win seven Grand Slam titles and spend 117 weeks at the top of the world rankings, Li believes she is better equipped to deal with the pressure of expectation.

"After I won the French Open I didn't have any experience and also nobody told me what I should do next," she said. "This time it's different. I'm working with Carlos [Rodriguez] and he has a lot of experience. He told me before what I should do.

"I want to be No.1 in the world. It's a goal, the dream for all athletes. I will try as hard as I can. There's no timing."

Li also defended her decision not to play in the inaugural International Premier Tennis League at the end of the season.  Rafael Nadal, Serena Williams and Novak Djokovic have signed up for the team event, which will take place across Asia between November 28 and December 13.

"I already [compiled] my schedule at the end of last year," Li said. "When I was doing it I didn't see any [IPTL] tournament so that's why I didn't [schedule] it."

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