Serena Williams
Is Serena Williams the greatest female tennis player of all time? Many would agree as she had proven a number of times that she is truly a great champion.IN PHOTO: Serena Williams of the U.S. poses with the Daphne Akhurst Memorial Cup after winning the women's singles final match at the 2015 Australian Open tennis tournament during a photo call at Melbourne's Royal Exhibition Building February 1, 2015. REUTERS/Thomas Peter REUTERS/Thomas Peter

World No. 1 Serena Williams paid homage to her coach and rumoured boyfriend Patrick Mouratoglou for inspiring her to believe that she could win her 19th Grand Slam title at the Australian Open. The 33-year-old beat World No. 2 Maria Sharapova in straight sets in Melbourne. The American claims that Mouratoglou was the key to her success.

"You know, there's some times when a player doesn't believe in themselves,” Williams said. “Even me, I feel like, 'Gosh, I'm not going to be able to beat this person. I'm not going to be able to play well. I don't feel confident in this shot today. I don't feel confident in that.”

According to Williams, Mouratoglou stood up for her for the past weeks before the tournament. Her rumoured boyfriend reportedly encouraged and gave her great strategy on the court every match. He told her what to do, what to expect and how to play a better game, Williams claimed. Patrick Mouratoglou revealed that the 19-time Grand Slam champion is mentally better and has bigger weapons when playing against Maria Sharapova. Thus far, Williams has defeated the Russian for 16 times in a row. According to Mouratoglou, winning against someone for that many times means something.

Serena Williams is tied with Helen Wills Moody with 19 Grand Slam titles. Ahead of her with the number of Grand Slam titles are Steffi Graf and Margaret Court with 22 and 24 Grand Slam titles, respectively.

For Mouratoglou, the record is attainable for the American. He said that Serena Williams can tie the record but it’s not going to be easy. The coach is certain that it is going to be difficult, but if Williams stays fit and will keep her motivation, she will make it.

Patrick Mouratoglou, who has been coaching Serena Williams for two and a half years, believes that the Australian Open champion still has the moment for the record. Williams is currently preparing for her tournament in the French Open in May.

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