Serena Williams is widely considered one of the greatest tennis players of all time, with an illustrious career that spans over two decades and includes 23 Grand Slam singles titles. However, former German tennis player Andrea Petkovic recently made waves by pushing back against the notion that Williams’ dominance was purely a result of her power.
In a recent interview, Petkovic shared her perspective on what truly made Williams exceptional, rejecting the simplistic view that sheer strength was the primary factor behind the American’s unprecedented success. Instead, she highlighted Serena’s intelligence, adaptability, and mental fortitude as the key components of her legendary status in the sport.
The Myth of Power as the Ultimate Advantage
Petkovic, who faced Williams multiple times throughout her career, acknowledged that Serena’s power was an undeniable asset but emphasized that it was far from the only reason she was able to dominate for so long.
“The way people talk about Serena, it’s almost like she won all those Grand Slams just by overpowering her opponents. But tennis is so much more than just hitting the ball hard,” Petkovic explained. “She had this incredible ability to read the game, to adjust mid-match, and to stay mentally strong in the toughest moments. That’s what made her the greatest—not just power.”
Petkovic’s comments came in response to the often-repeated narrative that Williams’ physical strength gave her an unfair advantage over her opponents. Critics have long suggested that Serena’s power game was the primary reason for her dominance, overlooking the tactical brilliance and technical precision she brought to the court.
Serena’s Versatility and Tactical Genius
While Williams was certainly known for her explosive serves and devastating groundstrokes, she was also one of the most versatile and strategic players in tennis history. She could switch gears effortlessly, adjusting her style to counter different opponents and playing conditions.
“Serena was just as capable of winning with finesse as she was with brute force,” Petkovic continued. “She had such an incredible touch at the net, she could slice, she could drop shot, and she was an underrated mover. Her court coverage was exceptional, and she always seemed to be two steps ahead of her opponents.”
Indeed, Williams’ tactical acumen allowed her to defeat players who relied on various styles, whether it was counterpunchers like Simona Halep, aggressive baseliners like Maria Sharapova, or all-court players like Justine Henin. Her ability to adjust and outthink her opponents was a major reason she remained at the top for so long.
Mental Strength: The True X-Factor
Another aspect of Williams’ game that often goes underappreciated is her mental strength. Throughout her career, she repeatedly demonstrated an uncanny ability to perform under pressure, often pulling off remarkable comebacks in high-stakes matches.
“She had this aura,” Petkovic noted. “You could be playing the best tennis of your life, but when Serena decided to flip the switch, it was over. She had this intensity, this belief in herself that never wavered. You don’t win 23 Grand Slams just by hitting hard—you win because you have the heart of a champion.”
Williams’ mental fortitude was perhaps most evident in her numerous Grand Slam finals. She won major titles in her teens, in her twenties, and even in her mid-to-late thirties, proving her ability to adapt and evolve with the game. Her resilience was on full display in countless matches, including her 2015 French Open semifinal against Timea Bacsinszky, where she battled through flu-like symptoms to secure victory, and the 2017 Australian Open final, where she won while pregnant.
Petkovic’s Playful Jab: “Tennis Square Opened Up to Serena in Ways Your Boyfriend Never Could”
In a humorous twist, Petkovic made a lighthearted remark about Serena’s unique relationship with the sport, quipping, “Tennis square opened up to Serena in ways your boyfriend never could.” While the comment was delivered in jest, it underscored the deep connection Williams had with the game—one that went beyond physicality and into a realm of pure mastery.
Petkovic’s remark alluded to Serena’s ability to command the court with an almost supernatural presence. Her movement, instincts, and shot selection often seemed effortless, as though the court itself was responding to her will. The phrase also playfully suggested that Williams’ dominance in tennis was something truly special, a relationship with the sport that transcended anything else.
The GOAT Debate: Beyond Power
Petkovic’s statements add fuel to the ongoing debate about what truly defines greatness in tennis. While power has always been an important factor in the sport, the best players—whether it’s Williams, Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, or Novak Djokovic—are not just defined by their physical gifts. Their tactical intelligence, resilience, and mental fortitude are what separate them from the rest.
For Serena, the combination of all these qualities made her one of the most formidable athletes in history. Her ability to blend power with precision, intelligence with instinct, and aggression with grace is what made her the GOAT in the eyes of many.
Legacy Beyond Strength
Petkovic’s comments serve as a reminder that Serena Williams’ greatness cannot be reduced to just one aspect of her game. While her power was a major weapon, it was her mind, heart, and spirit that truly set her apart.
As the sport continues to evolve, and new players rise to prominence, Serena’s legacy will remain a benchmark for excellence. Her impact on the game goes far beyond her records—she redefined what it meant to be a champion.
And as Petkovic humorously pointed out, Serena’s connection with the court was something truly special—something that no mere mortal, not even the best boyfriend in the world, could ever replicate.
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