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‘Serena Williams will be the greatest regardless of Margaret Court’s record,’ says Patrick Mouratoglou


Serena Williams will go down as the greatest player of all time even if she fails to match Margaret Court’s Grand Slam record, says Patrick Mouratoglou.

The American star, who last tasted Grand Slam success at the Australian Open in 2017, still finds herself one Major title behind the record of 24 held by Court.

Although Williams may end her career without matching the record of the Australian, her long-term coach Mouratoglou believes her legacy as the greatest player ever has already been secured.

“Margaret Court was playing at a time when three-quarters didn’t even go to Australia (for the Australian Open), where tennis was an amateur sport, when the draws were 16 players,” said Mouratoglou.

“I don’t mean to disrespect Margaret Court, but it’s another era. Yes, it would be better if Serena broke her record but, if she doesn’t, she will still be the greatest player of all time.”

The American star, who turns 40 on Sunday, has not played a competitive match since slipping on Centre Court at Wimbledon almost three months ago.

Despite plummeting to 40th in the WTA rankings, Mouratoglou insists Williams still has the game to compete at the highest level.

“She still has it. The question is how much she wants it and what is she willing to do to get there?,” added her coach.

“Since she had her daughter, it’s harder. She has a lot of trouble not putting her life as a mother before her life as a player which is completely understandable.

“I think that’s the main reason she didn’t win a Grand Slam. Her family comes first and in order to be able to do great things in one area, that area can’t come second.

“She is reflecting and we will see what comes out of it.”


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Tim Farthing, Tennishead Editorial Director & Owner, has been a huge tennis fan his whole life. He's a tennis journalist and entrepreneur as well as playing tennis to a national standard. He also helps manage his local club and volunteers for his local tennis organisation. He's a specialist in content about the administration of professional tennis and tennis coaching for all levels.