Serena Williams will bring her quest for a record-equalling 24th Grand Slam title to Wimbledon next week where she will try to shake off a nagging knee injury and show the tennis world that her window of opportunity is still open.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/serena-williamss-pursuit-of-24th-major-title-on-hold-after-french-open-exit-223516">Williams </a>has been stuck on 23 Grand Slam titles, one behind the all-time record held by Margaret Court, for over two years and has shown little evidence of late that she will be able to snap that drought at the All England Club.

"As long as she's playing, she's going to be a threat to win anything,"&nbsp;former world number one John McEnroe told a conference call.

"But it's just now there's more things that can go wrong, I suppose, like more days where she might not have it and other days where players won't give in as easily. So that just makes it more difficult,"&nbsp;McEnroe said.

The 37-year-old American's time on court has been limited to a handful of matches since the Australian Open in January due in part to a knee injury that kept her from competing in a tune-up event ahead of Wimbledon, where action begins on July 1.

After losing in the third round at the French Open, Williams did not exactly sound her confident self when asked if she would have enough time to get in optimal shape for Wimbledon, where she is a seven-times winner.

"I hope so. I'm still working on it and working on getting there. So I think it will be, I think it be enough time. We'll see, but I definitely hope so," said Williams.

When Williams was at the peak of her career, she was so far above the competition that she could barrel her way through a Grand Slam draw even if she was having an off day.

But the combination of injury, a limited playing schedule and an increased standard of women's tennis over the past few years have left many to question whether she can again triumph in one of tennis' blue riband events.

TWO STEPS SLOWER

Williams won the most recent of her Grand Slam titles at the 2017 Australian Open when she was in the early stages of her pregnancy, which led to her taking a year off from competition.

She came <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/serena-williams-2018-3-major-appearances-2-grand-slam-finals-and-an-infamous-controversy-185799&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiq1I7ulInjAhXaknAKHVjmBcoQFjAHegQIABAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1iQSXWVZXGlW1enWH2gUCE">back with a bang in 2018</a> and despite not playing at her best managed to reach the final at both Wimbledon and the US&nbsp;Open.

"It's hard for me to bet against Serena. Look what happened last year: Two finals in Grand Slams," said 18-times Grand Slam champion Chris Evert.

"The one difference that I see in Serena is since she's come back, she's been one or two steps slower than normal. I think that's a little bit of fitness. I think it's a little bit of match play. I think it's a little bit of confidence,"&nbsp;Evert said.

Healthy legs are key to any player's game but perhaps even more vital for someone like <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/roger-federer-says-thiem-right-to-fume-over-serena-williams-press-conference-row-223698&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiq1I7ulInjAhXaknAKHVjmBcoQFjAEegQIBRAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3ALgZq_sAxw7aSNvXqPi17">Williams </a>who relies heavily on her physicality and court coverage to set up big shots.

Williams has been unable to deliver her trademark big serves on a consistent basis of late but will likely take comfort in the friendly confines of the All England Club given she is most effective on grass.

But unlike in her prime, Williams' rivals know she is not the same player she once was and do not walk onto the court nearly as intimated as they once were when facing one of the game's all-time greats.

"There's so many things that may be going against Serena, and she thrives on that, and she loves that, and that's when she comes through," said Evert.

"I would have said in January, if there was any Grand Slam she was going to win, it would probably be Wimbledon ... and if her serve is on, she's going to be tough to beat," added&nbsp;Evert.

Serena Williams will bring her quest for a record-equalling 24th Grand Slam title to Wimbledon next week where she will try to shake off a nagging knee injury and show the tennis world that her window of opportunity is still open.

Serena Williams will bring her quest for a record-equalling 24th Grand Slam title to Wimbledon next week where she will try to shake off a nagging knee injury and show the tennis world that her window of opportunity is still open. Williams has been stuck on 23 Grand Slam titles, one behind the all-time record held by Margaret Court, for over two years and has shown little evidence of late that she will be able to snap that drought at the All England Club. "As long as she's playing, she's going to be a threat to win anything," former world number one John McEnroe told a conference call. "But it's just now there's more things that can go wrong, I suppose, like more days where she might not have it and other days where players won't give in as easily. So that just makes it more difficult," McEnroe said. The 37-year-old American's time on court has been limited to a handful of matches since the Australian Open in January due in part to a knee injury that kept her from competing in a tune-up event ahead of Wimbledon, where action begins on July 1. After losing in the third round at the French Open, Williams did not exactly sound her confident self when asked if she would have enough time to get in optimal shape for Wimbledon, where she is a seven-times winner. "I hope so. I'm still working on it and working on getting there. So I think it will be, I think it be enough time. We'll see, but I definitely hope so," said Williams. When Williams was at the peak of her career, she was so far above the competition that she could barrel her way through a Grand Slam draw even if she was having an off day. But the combination of injury, a limited playing schedule and an increased standard of women's tennis over the past few years have left many to question whether she can again triumph in one of tennis' blue riband events. TWO STEPS SLOWER Williams won the most recent of her Grand Slam titles at the 2017 Australian Open when she was in the early stages of her pregnancy, which led to her taking a year off from competition. She came back with a bang in 2018 and despite not playing at her best managed to reach the final at both Wimbledon and the US Open. "It's hard for me to bet against Serena. Look what happened last year: Two finals in Grand Slams," said 18-times Grand Slam champion Chris Evert. "The one difference that I see in Serena is since she's come back, she's been one or two steps slower than normal. I think that's a little bit of fitness. I think it's a little bit of match play. I think it's a little bit of confidence," Evert said. Healthy legs are key to any player's game but perhaps even more vital for someone like Williams who relies heavily on her physicality and court coverage to set up big shots. Williams has been unable to deliver her trademark big serves on a consistent basis of late but will likely take comfort in the friendly confines of the All England Club given she is most effective on grass. But unlike in her prime, Williams' rivals know she is not the same player she once was and do not walk onto the court nearly as intimated as they once were when facing one of the game's all-time greats. "There's so many things that may be going against Serena, and she thrives on that, and she loves that, and that's when she comes through," said Evert. "I would have said in January, if there was any Grand Slam she was going to win, it would probably be Wimbledon ... and if her serve is on, she's going to be tough to beat," added Evert.

Serena Williams hopes to end two-year grand slam drought at Wimbledon

Roger Federer has been seeded second ahead of great rival Rafael Nadal for Wimbledon despite trailing the Spaniard in the world rankings.

Nadal complained earlier this week that Wimbledon's unique formula for seeding that combines ranking points with form in grass-court competitions was disrespectful.

World number one and defending champion <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/novak-djokovic-supports-rafael-nadal-over-wimbledon-seedings-criticism-230554">Novak Djokovic</a> is the top seed.

Eighteen-time Grand Slam winner Nadal, ranked number two in the world, is therefore guaranteed to be in the same half of the draw as either Federer or Djokovic.

"Obviously it would be better to be two than three but if they think I have to be three I will accept three and fight to win the matches I have to win," Nadal told Spanish television channel Movistar on Monday.

"The only thing that doesn't seem right about this issue is that it is only Wimbledon that does it. If they all did it, it would seem more correct. It's not only about my particular case. There have been many occasions when players have played well all year on all surfaces but <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rafael-nadal-says-wimbledons-seedings-system-not-a-good-thing-230352">Wimbledon </a>does not respect the ranking they have earned," Nadal said.

South Africa's Kevin Anderson is seeded fourth, well ahead of his ranking of eight, after reaching the final for the first time last year, with Dominic Thiem, Alexander Zverev and Stefanos Tsitsipas all bumped down one position.

The women's seedings do mirror the rankings with French Open champion Ashleigh Barty top of the pile for the first time at a grand slam ahead of Naomi Osaka.

Defending champion Angelique Kerber is seeded fifth with seven-time Wimbledon champion Serena Williams down in 11th.

Roger Federer has been seeded second ahead of great rival Rafael Nadal for Wimbledon despite trailing the Spaniard in the world rankings. Nadal complained earlier this week that Wimbledon's unique formula for seeding that combines ranking points with form in grass-court competitions was disrespectful.

Roger Federer has been seeded second ahead of great rival Rafael Nadal for Wimbledon despite trailing the Spaniard in the world rankings. Nadal complained earlier this week that Wimbledon's unique formula for seeding that combines ranking points with form in grass-court competitions was disrespectful. World number one and defending champion Novak Djokovic is the top seed. Eighteen-time Grand Slam winner Nadal, ranked number two in the world, is therefore guaranteed to be in the same half of the draw as either Federer or Djokovic. "Obviously it would be better to be two than three but if they think I have to be three I will accept three and fight to win the matches I have to win," Nadal told Spanish television channel Movistar on Monday. "The only thing that doesn't seem right about this issue is that it is only Wimbledon that does it. If they all did it, it would seem more correct. It's not only about my particular case. There have been many occasions when players have played well all year on all surfaces but Wimbledon does not respect the ranking they have earned," Nadal said. South Africa's Kevin Anderson is seeded fourth, well ahead of his ranking of eight, after reaching the final for the first time last year, with Dominic Thiem, Alexander Zverev and Stefanos Tsitsipas all bumped down one position. The women's seedings do mirror the rankings with French Open champion Ashleigh Barty top of the pile for the first time at a grand slam ahead of Naomi Osaka. Defending champion Angelique Kerber is seeded fifth with seven-time Wimbledon champion Serena Williams down in 11th.

Wimbledon: Roger Federer seeded second, Rafael Nadal drops to three

Spaniard Rafael Nadal received support from Wimbledon champion Novak Djokovic on Tuesday after criticising the unique seedings formula used by the grasscourt Grand Slam which gets underway at the All England Club on Monday.

Nadal looks set to fall victim to the formula which tweaks the seedings based on the previous form on grass, with the 33-year-old expected to be seeded third behind <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-winner-rafael-nadal-still-lagging-novak-djokovic-in-rankings-226068&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiWxoKy1IbjAhUJQo8KHQMtC4IQFjABegQIDhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1AvBmH7ndws7GEpTYjzuTh">top-ranked Djokovic</a> and Roger Federer despite being world number two.

Wimbledon, which will announce the seedings on Wednesday, is the only one of the four Grand Slam tournaments not to stick rigidly to the ATP and WTA rankings.

With Nadal, seeking a first Wimbledon title for nine years, seeded three it would mean he would most probably have to beat eight-time champion Roger Federer and four-time winner Djokovic to get his hands on the trophy for a third time.

"Wimbledon is the only tournament of the year that doesn't follow the ranking," the 33-year-old Nadal told Spanish TV station #Vamos on Tuesday.

"It's their choice. Either way, being second or third seed, I have to play at the best level to aspire to the things I aspire to. It is better to be second than third, but if they consider that I have to be third I will accept. I don't think it's a good thing that Wimbledon is the only one with its own seeding formula," Nadal siad.

Nadal lost a semi-final epic to Djokovic last year but in his previous five appearances, he never got past round four.

SEEDING SURPRISE

Wimbledon top seed Djokovic said he could understand <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/rafael-nadal-says-wimbledons-seedings-system-not-a-good-thing-230352&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiWxoKy1IbjAhUJQo8KHQMtC4IQFjAAegQIBRAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0INPU-ffhy0_7cu7bmBYTR">Nadal's frustration</a>.

"It's their rules and you have to respect it although it's a little bit surprising to be honest," the Serb told Reuters after playing at the Boodles exhibition event on Tuesday.

"Roger is the greatest of all time and has won the most Wimbledon titles of any player in history and if any player deserves it it's him. But at the same time it's Nadal that he is taking over (from as) the second seed so it's surprising to be honest," Djokovic said.

The top 32 players on the ATP ranking list, who are present at Wimbledon, will take the seeded places, but a formula using results on grass for the past 24 months can change the order.

"The only thing that doesn't seem right to me is that it's just Wimbledon that does it. If everyone did it, I think it would be appropriate or correct," Nadal told #Vamos.

The women's seedings follow the WTA ranking list but can be tweaked to produce "a balanced draw".

Serena Williams was ranked 183rd ahead of last year's tournament but was handed a seeding of 25.

Spaniard Rafael Nadal received support from Wimbledon champion Novak Djokovic on Tuesday after criticising the unique seedings formula used by the grasscourt Grand Slam which gets underway at the All England Club on Monday.

Spaniard Rafael Nadal received support from Wimbledon champion Novak Djokovic on Tuesday after criticising the unique seedings formula used by the grasscourt Grand Slam which gets underway at the All England Club on Monday. Nadal looks set to fall victim to the formula which tweaks the seedings based on the previous form on grass, with the 33-year-old expected to be seeded third behind top-ranked Djokovic and Roger Federer despite being world number two. Wimbledon, which will announce the seedings on Wednesday, is the only one of the four Grand Slam tournaments not to stick rigidly to the ATP and WTA rankings. With Nadal, seeking a first Wimbledon title for nine years, seeded three it would mean he would most probably have to beat eight-time champion Roger Federer and four-time winner Djokovic to get his hands on the trophy for a third time. "Wimbledon is the only tournament of the year that doesn't follow the ranking," the 33-year-old Nadal told Spanish TV station #Vamos on Tuesday. "It's their choice. Either way, being second or third seed, I have to play at the best level to aspire to the things I aspire to. It is better to be second than third, but if they consider that I have to be third I will accept. I don't think it's a good thing that Wimbledon is the only one with its own seeding formula," Nadal siad. Nadal lost a semi-final epic to Djokovic last year but in his previous five appearances, he never got past round four. SEEDING SURPRISE Wimbledon top seed Djokovic said he could understand Nadal's frustration. "It's their rules and you have to respect it although it's a little bit surprising to be honest," the Serb told Reuters after playing at the Boodles exhibition event on Tuesday. "Roger is the greatest of all time and has won the most Wimbledon titles of any player in history and if any player deserves it it's him. But at the same time it's Nadal that he is taking over (from as) the second seed so it's surprising to be honest," Djokovic said. The top 32 players on the ATP ranking list, who are present at Wimbledon, will take the seeded places, but a formula using results on grass for the past 24 months can change the order. "The only thing that doesn't seem right to me is that it's just Wimbledon that does it. If everyone did it, I think it would be appropriate or correct," Nadal told #Vamos. The women's seedings follow the WTA ranking list but can be tweaked to produce "a balanced draw". Serena Williams was ranked 183rd ahead of last year's tournament but was handed a seeding of 25.

Novak Djokovic supports Rafael Nadal over Wimbledon seedings criticism

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/roger-federer-eases-into-12th-french-open-quarter-final-223671">Roger Federer</a> said Dominic Thiem was right to be angry at being kicked out of his own press conference so that Roland Garros organisers could accommodate a defeated Serena Williams.

Austria's Thiem, the fourth seed in the men's event and the 2018 runner-up, was conducting his post-match press obligations after reaching the last 16 on Saturday.

However, he was then informed that the main interview room was needed by American superstar Williams who had just suffered a third round loss to Sofia Kenin.

It was the 23-time Grand Slam title winner's earliest exit at a Slam in almost five years and she was eager to be away from the tournament site as quickly as possible.

"It's a joke," fumed 25-year-old Thiem to media officers after being told he should finish his interviews in a smaller room.

"I have to leave the room because she's coming. What the hell, I don't care. I can also do whatever I want."

Watch the video:

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video of Dominic his press <a href="https://t.co/frzKL4iVbY">https://t.co/frzKL4iVbY</a>
— t (@slaycoric) <a href="https://twitter.com/slaycoric/status/1134910695735214081?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 1, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Federer leapt to the defence of Thiem, describing him as "a superstar, a male superstar".

"I think the one who is still in the tournament gets priority, that's how I see it," said Federer after easing past Leonardo Mayer to reach his 54th quarter-final at the majors.

"There must have been a misunderstanding or maybe they should have kept Serena still in the locker room, not waiting here in the press centre.&nbsp;

"I don't know exactly what happened. I understand Dominic's frustration. I don't think he's mad at Serena or anybody. I just think it was an unfortunate situation."

There was no indication as to who had decided to shift Thiem mid-flow on Saturday night.

However, French sports daily L'Equipe claimed that Williams had no preference over where she carried out her press conference.

"Put me in another room, a smaller one, but now," she was reported to have said.

With Williams reportedly becoming increasingly impatient, officials looked to rescue the situation by moving Thiem to another room.

"That's really impolite," she was heard to say.

Thiem had defeated Pablo Cuevas of Uruguay 6-3, 4-6, 6-2, 7-5 while Williams was stunned 6-2, 7-5 by Kenin.

There was a backlash on social media over the incident.

"Wait your turn for the press room like everyone else," tweeted former Australian player Sam Groth.

"Thiem, still in the draw having won, would have agreed to a press time and has a round of 16 match to prepare for, Serena just has her jet on the tarmac!"

Roger Federer said Dominic Thiem was right to be angry at being kicked out of his own press conference so that Roland Garros organisers could accommodate a defeated Serena Williams.

Roger Federer said Dominic Thiem was right to be angry at being kicked out of his own press conference so that Roland Garros organisers could accommodate a defeated Serena Williams. Austria's Thiem, the fourth seed in the men's event and the 2018 runner-up, was conducting his post-match press obligations after reaching the last 16 on Saturday. However, he was then informed that the main interview room was needed by American superstar Williams who had just suffered a third round loss to Sofia Kenin. It was the 23-time Grand Slam title winner's earliest exit at a Slam in almost five years and she was eager to be away from the tournament site as quickly as possible. "It's a joke," fumed 25-year-old Thiem to media officers after being told he should finish his interviews in a smaller room. "I have to leave the room because she's coming. What the hell, I don't care. I can also do whatever I want." Watch the video: video of Dominic his press https://t.co/frzKL4iVbY — t (@slaycoric) June 1, 2019 × Federer leapt to the defence of Thiem, describing him as "a superstar, a male superstar". "I think the one who is still in the tournament gets priority, that's how I see it," said Federer after easing past Leonardo Mayer to reach his 54th quarter-final at the majors. "There must have been a misunderstanding or maybe they should have kept Serena still in the locker room, not waiting here in the press centre. "I don't know exactly what happened. I understand Dominic's frustration. I don't think he's mad at Serena or anybody. I just think it was an unfortunate situation." There was no indication as to who had decided to shift Thiem mid-flow on Saturday night. However, French sports daily L'Equipe claimed that Williams had no preference over where she carried out her press conference. "Put me in another room, a smaller one, but now," she was reported to have said. With Williams reportedly becoming increasingly impatient, officials looked to rescue the situation by moving Thiem to another room. "That's really impolite," she was heard to say. Thiem had defeated Pablo Cuevas of Uruguay 6-3, 4-6, 6-2, 7-5 while Williams was stunned 6-2, 7-5 by Kenin. There was a backlash on social media over the incident. "Wait your turn for the press room like everyone else," tweeted former Australian player Sam Groth. "Thiem, still in the draw having won, would have agreed to a press time and has a round of 16 match to prepare for, Serena just has her jet on the tarmac!"

Roger Federer says Thiem right to fume over Serena Williams press conference row

Serena Williams's quest for a record-equalling 24th Grand Slam singles title was put on hold on Saturday after the former world number one was knocked out of the French Open in the third round following a 6-2 7-5 defeat by fellow American Sofia Kenin.

Chasing Margaret Smith Court's all-time record, which was built over the amateur and professional eras, Williams failed to recover from a woeful opening set on Court Philippe Chatrier.

In the players' first meeting, world number 35 Kenin pulled Williams around the court and made the most of her opponent's unforced errors to set up a last-16 encounter with Australian eighth seed Ashleigh Barty.

Williams won the last of her 23 major singles titles at the 2017 Australian Open.

Serena Williams's quest for a record-equalling 24th Grand Slam singles title was put on hold on Saturday after the former world number one was knocked out of the French Open in the third round following a 6-2 7-5 defeat by fellow American Sofia Kenin.

Serena Williams's quest for a record-equalling 24th Grand Slam singles title was put on hold on Saturday after the former world number one was knocked out of the French Open in the third round following a 6-2 7-5 defeat by fellow American Sofia Kenin. Chasing Margaret Smith Court's all-time record, which was built over the amateur and professional eras, Williams failed to recover from a woeful opening set on Court Philippe Chatrier. In the players' first meeting, world number 35 Kenin pulled Williams around the court and made the most of her opponent's unforced errors to set up a last-16 encounter with Australian eighth seed Ashleigh Barty. Williams won the last of her 23 major singles titles at the 2017 Australian Open.

Serena Williams's pursuit of 24th major title on hold after French Open exit

Serena Williams breezed into the third round of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-del-potro-prevails-in-five-set-battle-with-nishioka-222988">French Open</a> on Thursday with a routine 6-3, 6-2 win against Japanese Kurumi Nara, wasting little energy in her quest for a record-equalling Grand Slam singles title.

The 10th seed, chasing a first major since the 2017 Australian Open, survived the first-set fright in her opening match, but there was no hiccup this time.

She will take on fellow American Sofia Kenin in the next round, with world number one Naomi Osaka a potential opponent in the quarter-finals.

The 37-year-old was given a decent workout by world number 238 Nara, who was playing her only second match in the main draw of a tour-level tournament this year.

"I think she was playing tennis the whole time, really good tennis the whole time," Williams told reporters.

"She was just playing really tactical tennis, and I just had to play a little bit better,"&nbsp;Williams said.

Nara stood her ground in the first seven games but derailed in the eighth as Williams broke for 5-3 with a booming forehand winner down the line.

The Japanese cracked earlier in the second set, dropping serve in the third game, and never recovered as Williams snatched her 801st victory on the tour.

Although an ankle injury disrupted her early season, Williams believes she still has what it takes to match Margaret Court's all-time record of 24 Grand Slam singles titles.

"I generally come to a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-naomi-osaka-survives-again-to-battle-past-victoria-azarenka-into-third-round-222829">Grand Slam</a> to win it," she said.

"I have had a tough year since I twisted my ankle in Australia. It's just been really tough after that. So everything definitely feels a little bit harder than normal, but at the same time, I know that it's going to get better," Serena added.

Serena Williams breezed into the third round of the French Open on Thursday with a routine 6-3, 6-2 win against Japanese Kurumi Nara, wasting little energy in her quest for a record-equalling Grand Slam singles title.

Serena Williams breezed into the third round of the French Open on Thursday with a routine 6-3, 6-2 win against Japanese Kurumi Nara, wasting little energy in her quest for a record-equalling Grand Slam singles title. The 10th seed, chasing a first major since the 2017 Australian Open, survived the first-set fright in her opening match, but there was no hiccup this time. She will take on fellow American Sofia Kenin in the next round, with world number one Naomi Osaka a potential opponent in the quarter-finals. The 37-year-old was given a decent workout by world number 238 Nara, who was playing her only second match in the main draw of a tour-level tournament this year. "I think she was playing tennis the whole time, really good tennis the whole time," Williams told reporters. "She was just playing really tactical tennis, and I just had to play a little bit better," Williams said. Nara stood her ground in the first seven games but derailed in the eighth as Williams broke for 5-3 with a booming forehand winner down the line. The Japanese cracked earlier in the second set, dropping serve in the third game, and never recovered as Williams snatched her 801st victory on the tour. Although an ankle injury disrupted her early season, Williams believes she still has what it takes to match Margaret Court's all-time record of 24 Grand Slam singles titles. "I generally come to a Grand Slam to win it," she said. "I have had a tough year since I twisted my ankle in Australia. It's just been really tough after that. So everything definitely feels a little bit harder than normal, but at the same time, I know that it's going to get better," Serena added.

French Open: No sweat for Williams as she swings into round three

Former world number one Serena Williams entered the second round of French Open after she recovered from a poor first set to win 2-6, 6-1, 6-0 on Monday.&nbsp;

More than her performance, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/serena-williams-reveals-reason-of-wearing-superhero-like-black-catsuit-140967">Serena's dress made headlines</a> at the Roland Garros as she chose a bold outfit for her first-round match against Russia’s Vitalia Diatchenko.&nbsp;

Serena wore the Nike-backed black-and-white cape when she entered the court and when she removed it, a black and white zebra-stripe print dress was revealed, split at one thigh.&nbsp;

On her cape, the legend of 'mother, champion, queen, goddess' was written in French.&nbsp;

"It was just to remind everyone that they can be champions and are queens. So I love that about it," she said of her 2019 dress and cape.

Lat year, Serena had caused a stir at the French Open with her Black Panther catsuit, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-to-ban-serena-williams-superhero-like-black-catsuit-161409">which was subsequently banned</a>.&nbsp;

Roland Garros chiefs had said that the outfit that Serena wore will not be accepted they also described the outfit as "going too far".&nbsp;

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Let the Roland Garros begin. Here is my French Open look designed by <a href="https://twitter.com/virgilabloh?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@virgilabloh</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/Nike?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Nike</a>. <a href="https://t.co/niiyqoI94m">pic.twitter.com/niiyqoI94m</a>
— Serena Williams (@serenawilliams) <a href="https://twitter.com/serenawilliams/status/1132633035684421632?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 26, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"You know, I have been dealing with a lot, and then I just got nervous out there and I stopped moving my feet.&nbsp;

"There were like concrete blocks on my feet. I was, like, 'You gotta do something'," said Serena.&nbsp;

Former world number one Serena Williams entered the second round of French Open after she recovered from a poor first set to win 2-6, 6-1, 6-0 on Monday. More than her performance, Serena's dress made headlines at the Roland Garros as she chose a bold outfit for her first-round match against Russia’s Vitalia Diatchenko.

Former world number one Serena Williams entered the second round of French Open after she recovered from a poor first set to win 2-6, 6-1, 6-0 on Monday. More than her performance, Serena's dress made headlines at the Roland Garros as she chose a bold outfit for her first-round match against Russia’s Vitalia Diatchenko. Serena wore the Nike-backed black-and-white cape when she entered the court and when she removed it, a black and white zebra-stripe print dress was revealed, split at one thigh. On her cape, the legend of 'mother, champion, queen, goddess' was written in French. "It was just to remind everyone that they can be champions and are queens. So I love that about it," she said of her 2019 dress and cape. Lat year, Serena had caused a stir at the French Open with her Black Panther catsuit, which was subsequently banned. Roland Garros chiefs had said that the outfit that Serena wore will not be accepted they also described the outfit as "going too far". Let the Roland Garros begin. Here is my French Open look designed by @virgilabloh and @Nike. pic.twitter.com/niiyqoI94m — Serena Williams (@serenawilliams) May 26, 2019 × "You know, I have been dealing with a lot, and then I just got nervous out there and I stopped moving my feet. "There were like concrete blocks on my feet. I was, like, 'You gotta do something'," said Serena.

Serena Williams unveils new French Open outfit

Serena Williams recently visited Meghan Markle, for the first time after the Duchess gave birth to her first child. Reports suggest that the tennis star went with husband Alexis Ohanian to meet Meghan’s kid, Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor in London.&nbsp;

Ever since she met the child, reports suggest that Serena could possibly be the godmother to Archie. Serena has been really close to Meghan and the two have met several times since Meghan got married in Britain’s royal family.&nbsp;

Serena made a quick stop in&nbsp;London on her way to Paris for the French Open Tournament. She even shared a picture and video on Instagram from the palace.&nbsp;

For those unaware, a godparent in Christianity is someone who presents the child during the ritual of baptism. That person is responsible for the child’s religious education. Usually, godparents are close friends of the child’s parents.

Serena Williams recently visited Meghan Markle, for the first time after the Duchess gave birth to her first child. Reports suggest that the tennis star went with husband Alexis Ohanian to meet Meghan’s kid, Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor in London.

Serena Williams recently visited Meghan Markle, for the first time after the Duchess gave birth to her first child. Reports suggest that the tennis star went with husband Alexis Ohanian to meet Meghan’s kid, Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor in London. Ever since she met the child, reports suggest that Serena could possibly be the godmother to Archie. Serena has been really close to Meghan and the two have met several times since Meghan got married in Britain’s royal family. Serena made a quick stop in London on her way to Paris for the French Open Tournament. She even shared a picture and video on Instagram from the palace. For those unaware, a godparent in Christianity is someone who presents the child during the ritual of baptism. That person is responsible for the child’s religious education. Usually, godparents are close friends of the child’s parents.

Serena Williams visits Meghan Markle, sparks rumours of being godmother to royal baby Archie

Serena Williams admitted the 'mother, champion, queen, goddess' logo which adorned her Roland Garros outfit on Monday was "a lot to carry, but so is being Serena".

The 37-year-old American <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/preview-uncertainty-over-serena-fitness-osaka-form-at-roland-garros-221516">survived a first-set scare</a> before defeating Russia's Vitalia Diatchenko 2-6, 6-1, 6-0 to reach the second round.

But as she struggled to impose herself on her 83rd-ranked opponent, it looked like her dazzling choice of costume for the occasion might come back to haunt her.

The legend of 'mother, champion, queen, goddess' was written in French in a nod to her hosts.

Once the cape was removed, Williams revealed a black and white zebra-stripe print dress, split at one thigh.

Last year, Williams fell foul of Roland Garros with her one-piece Black Panther outfit which was subsequently banned.

"It was just to remind everyone that they can be champions and are queens. So I love that about it," she said of her 2019 dress and cape.

"Yeah. It is a lot to carry, but so is being Serena Williams."

The American, who is attempting to equal Margaret Court's all-time record of 24 Grand Slam titles, racked up her 800th career main draw win with her victory in front of a half-full Court Philippe Chatrier.

After dropping the first set, she was in danger of suffering just the second opening round defeat of her Grand Slam tournament career.

But normal service was quickly resumed as she racked up 12 of the last 13 games.

"You know, I have been dealing with a lot, and then I just got nervous out there and I stopped moving my feet.&nbsp;

"There were like concrete blocks on my feet. I was, like, 'You gotta do something'."

Williams, 2002, 2013 and 2015 champion in Paris, will face either Japan's Kurumi Nara or Dalila Jakupovic of Slovenia for a place in the last 32, after their match was suspended at one-set-all overnight.

Williams won her most recent major at the Australian Open in 2017 while pregnant.

She returned to Grand Slam tennis after giving birth to her daughter at Roland Garros in 2018, making the last 16 where she had been set to resume her bitter rivalry with Maria Sharapova.

An arm injury torpedoed that meeting and stalled her assault on the fourth title in Paris.

Defeat in the 2018 Wimbledon final and US Open championship match, where her now-infamous meltdown overshadowed Naomi Osaka's title triumph, followed her Paris heartbreak.

Her Australian Open campaign in January ended in a quarter-final loss to Karolina Pliskova despite having led 5-1 in the final set and holding four match points.

Since Melbourne, Williams had been unable to finish the three tournaments she had entered -- retiring in the third round of Indian Wells and withdrawing after winning a round in Miami, and after winning one round in Rome due to a right knee injury.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Serena Williams admitted the 'mother, champion, queen, goddess' logo which adorned her Roland Garros outfit on Monday was "a lot to carry, but so is being Serena".

Serena Williams admitted the 'mother, champion, queen, goddess' logo which adorned her Roland Garros outfit on Monday was "a lot to carry, but so is being Serena". The 37-year-old American survived a first-set scare before defeating Russia's Vitalia Diatchenko 2-6, 6-1, 6-0 to reach the second round. But as she struggled to impose herself on her 83rd-ranked opponent, it looked like her dazzling choice of costume for the occasion might come back to haunt her. The legend of 'mother, champion, queen, goddess' was written in French in a nod to her hosts. Once the cape was removed, Williams revealed a black and white zebra-stripe print dress, split at one thigh. Last year, Williams fell foul of Roland Garros with her one-piece Black Panther outfit which was subsequently banned. "It was just to remind everyone that they can be champions and are queens. So I love that about it," she said of her 2019 dress and cape. "Yeah. It is a lot to carry, but so is being Serena Williams." The American, who is attempting to equal Margaret Court's all-time record of 24 Grand Slam titles, racked up her 800th career main draw win with her victory in front of a half-full Court Philippe Chatrier. After dropping the first set, she was in danger of suffering just the second opening round defeat of her Grand Slam tournament career. But normal service was quickly resumed as she racked up 12 of the last 13 games. "You know, I have been dealing with a lot, and then I just got nervous out there and I stopped moving my feet. "There were like concrete blocks on my feet. I was, like, 'You gotta do something'." Williams, 2002, 2013 and 2015 champion in Paris, will face either Japan's Kurumi Nara or Dalila Jakupovic of Slovenia for a place in the last 32, after their match was suspended at one-set-all overnight. Williams won her most recent major at the Australian Open in 2017 while pregnant. She returned to Grand Slam tennis after giving birth to her daughter at Roland Garros in 2018, making the last 16 where she had been set to resume her bitter rivalry with Maria Sharapova. An arm injury torpedoed that meeting and stalled her assault on the fourth title in Paris. Defeat in the 2018 Wimbledon final and US Open championship match, where her now-infamous meltdown overshadowed Naomi Osaka's title triumph, followed her Paris heartbreak. Her Australian Open campaign in January ended in a quarter-final loss to Karolina Pliskova despite having led 5-1 in the final set and holding four match points. Since Melbourne, Williams had been unable to finish the three tournaments she had entered -- retiring in the third round of Indian Wells and withdrawing after winning a round in Miami, and after winning one round in Rome due to a right knee injury.

'Being Serena, it's a lot to carry': Williams struggles to 800th victory

World number five Alexander Zverev continued his poor recent form as he crashed out of the Italian Open in the second round while Serena Williams had to pull out of the women's draw with a recurring knee injury on Tuesday.

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/its-good-to-be-back-serena-eases-to-victory-in-rome-return-218459&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwitm5nsgp3iAhXu6nMBHarRB7MQFjAAegQIBRAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2l24bREUr0_M4_TxF61G52">Serena had beaten Swede Rebecca Peterson in straight sets on Monday</a> and was due to face sister Venus but the injury means her participation at the May 26-June&nbsp;French Open is in doubt.&nbsp;

Zverev, who has not got past the quarter-finals at any tournament since reaching the Acapulco final in early March, did little to suggest he could be a contender at Roland Garros after a 7-5, 7-5 defeat by home favourite Matteo Berrettini.&nbsp;

Roared on by a partisan home crowd at the Foro Italico, Berrettini took the opening three games before the German, 2017 champion and last year's runner-up, regained his composure.

Berrettini then saved five break points to take a 6-5 lead before the rattled Zverev, who beat the Italian in the same round last year, threw away the opening set with two unforced errors and a double fault.&nbsp;

They traded breaks early in the second before Zverev, who saved a match point in the 10th game, committed another flurry of errors, capped by a forehand into the net that handed Berrettini a memorable win.

"The environment was great, the match that I played was horrendous," said the 22-year-old Zverev.&nbsp;

World number five Alexander Zverev continued his poor recent form as he crashed out of the Italian Open in the second round while Serena Williams had to pull out of the women's draw with a recurring knee injury on Tuesday.

World number five Alexander Zverev continued his poor recent form as he crashed out of the Italian Open in the second round while Serena Williams had to pull out of the women's draw with a recurring knee injury on Tuesday. Serena had beaten Swede Rebecca Peterson in straight sets on Monday and was due to face sister Venus but the injury means her participation at the May 26-June French Open is in doubt. Zverev, who has not got past the quarter-finals at any tournament since reaching the Acapulco final in early March, did little to suggest he could be a contender at Roland Garros after a 7-5, 7-5 defeat by home favourite Matteo Berrettini. Roared on by a partisan home crowd at the Foro Italico, Berrettini took the opening three games before the German, 2017 champion and last year's runner-up, regained his composure. Berrettini then saved five break points to take a 6-5 lead before the rattled Zverev, who beat the Italian in the same round last year, threw away the opening set with two unforced errors and a double fault. They traded breaks early in the second before Zverev, who saved a match point in the 10th game, committed another flurry of errors, capped by a forehand into the net that handed Berrettini a memorable win. "The environment was great, the match that I played was horrendous," said the 22-year-old Zverev.

Italian Open: Injured Serena Williams withdraws, Alexander Zverev crashes out

Serena Williams made a winning return from injury beating Swedish qualifier Rebecca Petersen 6-4, 6-2 to advance to the second round of the Italian Open clay-court tournament on Monday.

Williams, 37, has not played since a hard-fought three-set win over Petersen in the second round at the Miami Open in March before withdrawing with a knee injury.

The 23-time Grand Slam winner -- now ranked 11th -- also withdrew from Indian Wells in March complaining of illness.

Watched by her husband Alexis Ohanian, Williams sealed victory on her second match point against her 64th-ranked opponent after 76 minutes on court in the tournament which acts as a warm-up for the French Open in two weeks' time.

"I felt good, I wasn't sure how it was going to feel," said Williams, who hit 10 aces.

"It's been a while, I haven't played a ton of matches this year, not by choice, just by force.&nbsp;

"I really, really, actually desperately wanted to be on the tour and to be playing, but it hasn't been able to work out.&nbsp;

"It felt good to finally be back out. Hopefully I'll be able to keep it up.

"I got here pretty early really, I wanted to get used to the conditions and 'real clay' and it was good I did that."

Petersen looked set to push the former world number one going 3-1 up in the first set, but 10th-seeded Williams won five of the next six games.

She broke twice more in the second and survived two break points against her while serving for the match, sealing victory after double-faulting on her first match point.

She will play either her older sister Venus, who received a wildcard entry to the tournament she won in 1999, or Belgian Elise Mertens in the second round.

Should Serena and Venus meet in Rome, it will be their first meeting on European clay in nearly 17 years.

'Basically have to eat grass'

Williams admitted it has been a struggle to maintain her fitness as she recovered from injury.

"I haven't been able to train or practice a lot, I was out much longer than I expected," she explained. "I did everything I could to stay fit and keep my cardio up.&nbsp;

"I love the clay season and wanted to do everything to be a part of it and I'm here.

"I've just been on this diet basically. It's been awful. When you're sedentary, it becomes hard to manage your body. So it's just basically you have to eat grass.&nbsp;

"It was a nightmare. But it worked and it paid off. I feel like I'm taking it one day at a time.&nbsp;

"For me obviously it's about playing well at all the big moments, including this tournament because it is a big moment.&nbsp;

"Obviously the slams, just getting ready for those events."

A four-time Rome winner, Williams last won on the red clay of the Foro Italico in 2016.

She is preparing for the French Open later this month where a third title on clay at Roland Garros would see her match Margaret Court's record of 24 major singles titles.

In the meantime she is enjoying sharing her favourite sites in Rome with her daughter Olimpia who turns two in September.

"It's really fun because I took her to the Colosseum, then I took her to the (Trevi) fountain," she said.

"It was really cool to share my favourite city with her, some of my favourite things to see. Obviously the pasta and the food.&nbsp;

"Now when I go to tournaments, I really kind of want to get there early so I can have these different experiences and photos and videos and memories with Olympia.&nbsp;

"She might not remember it, but at least we'll be able to see it in the future."

Serena Williams made a winning return from injury beating Swedish qualifier Rebecca Petersen 6-4, 6-2 to advance to the second round of the Italian Open clay-court tournament on Monday.

Serena Williams made a winning return from injury beating Swedish qualifier Rebecca Petersen 6-4, 6-2 to advance to the second round of the Italian Open clay-court tournament on Monday. Williams, 37, has not played since a hard-fought three-set win over Petersen in the second round at the Miami Open in March before withdrawing with a knee injury. The 23-time Grand Slam winner -- now ranked 11th -- also withdrew from Indian Wells in March complaining of illness. Watched by her husband Alexis Ohanian, Williams sealed victory on her second match point against her 64th-ranked opponent after 76 minutes on court in the tournament which acts as a warm-up for the French Open in two weeks' time. "I felt good, I wasn't sure how it was going to feel," said Williams, who hit 10 aces. "It's been a while, I haven't played a ton of matches this year, not by choice, just by force. "I really, really, actually desperately wanted to be on the tour and to be playing, but it hasn't been able to work out. "It felt good to finally be back out. Hopefully I'll be able to keep it up. "I got here pretty early really, I wanted to get used to the conditions and 'real clay' and it was good I did that." Petersen looked set to push the former world number one going 3-1 up in the first set, but 10th-seeded Williams won five of the next six games. She broke twice more in the second and survived two break points against her while serving for the match, sealing victory after double-faulting on her first match point. She will play either her older sister Venus, who received a wildcard entry to the tournament she won in 1999, or Belgian Elise Mertens in the second round. Should Serena and Venus meet in Rome, it will be their first meeting on European clay in nearly 17 years. 'Basically have to eat grass' Williams admitted it has been a struggle to maintain her fitness as she recovered from injury. "I haven't been able to train or practice a lot, I was out much longer than I expected," she explained. "I did everything I could to stay fit and keep my cardio up. "I love the clay season and wanted to do everything to be a part of it and I'm here. "I've just been on this diet basically. It's been awful. When you're sedentary, it becomes hard to manage your body. So it's just basically you have to eat grass. "It was a nightmare. But it worked and it paid off. I feel like I'm taking it one day at a time. "For me obviously it's about playing well at all the big moments, including this tournament because it is a big moment. "Obviously the slams, just getting ready for those events." A four-time Rome winner, Williams last won on the red clay of the Foro Italico in 2016. She is preparing for the French Open later this month where a third title on clay at Roland Garros would see her match Margaret Court's record of 24 major singles titles. In the meantime she is enjoying sharing her favourite sites in Rome with her daughter Olimpia who turns two in September. "It's really fun because I took her to the Colosseum, then I took her to the (Trevi) fountain," she said. "It was really cool to share my favourite city with her, some of my favourite things to see. Obviously the pasta and the food. "Now when I go to tournaments, I really kind of want to get there early so I can have these different experiences and photos and videos and memories with Olympia. "She might not remember it, but at least we'll be able to see it in the future."

'It's good to be back:' Serena eases to victory in Rome return

Met Gala, the invitation-only event, famed for its A-list celebrities and haute couture gowns, is a benefit for New York's Metropolitan Museum of Art and also marks the opening of the Costume Institute's annual fashion exhibit.

Met Gala, the invitation-only event, famed for its A-list celebrities and haute couture gowns, is a benefit for New York's Metropolitan Museum of Art and also marks the opening of the Costume Institute's annual fashion exhibit. Camp, a theme that embraces humour, exaggeration and liberal interpretation, was inspired by writer Susan Sontag's 1964 essay "Notes on 'Camp.'' Trends on the pink carpet included gold lame and sequins, feathers, neon, and oversized sleeves, skirts and trains. Tennis star Serena Williams stayed true to her style, pairing Nike sneakers with a custom neon yellow dress from Italian fashion brand Versace. Later in the evening, Williams ditched the dress, to reveal pink hotpants and high heeled boots. View this post on Instagram #SerenaWilliams al #MET2019 spicca con l'abito #giallo #Versace corredato di #farfalle . Ma il vero dettaglio #cool sono le sneakers #fluo #Nike x #OffWhite . Su #LOOKDAVIP #TgCom24 (link in bio) trovi tutti i #dettagli strani del #MetGala | @serenawilliams @offwhitexnike @versace A post shared by Look da Vip (@lookdavip) on May 7, 2019 at 4:15am PDT × Lewis Hamilton also attended the Met ball. The British Formula One racer caught the eye in a black suit flaunting a silver zig-zag design and matching trousers. The ace racer wore bracelets, as well as rings, a nose stud and earrings. View this post on Instagram Arrival NYC at the Met Gala. What do you think of my look? I had so much fun co-designing this with Tommy 🙌🏾#metgala A post shared by Lewis Hamilton (@lewishamilton) on May 6, 2019 at 6:41pm PDT × NFL star quarterback Tom Brady also attended the Met Gala. View this post on Instagram No we are not your Mom and Dad. #MetGala A post shared by Tom Brady (@tombrady) on May 6, 2019 at 8:19pm PDT × Lady Gaga opened this year's Met Gala as she was one of the first people to grace the pink carpet.

Sports stars Serena Williams and Lewis Hamilton attend the Met Gala

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thailand-elections-polls-open-thai-king-urges-people-to-support-good-to-prevent-chaos-205166">Thailand election: Polls open, Thai King urges people to support 'good' to prevent 'chaos'&nbsp;</a>

Polls in Thai election opened on Sunday. This is the first time the country is going to general elections since the 2014 coup. Polls opened "at 92,320 polling stations across the country," Election Commission secretary-general Jarungvich Phumma told AFP.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-slaps-sanctions-on-iran-nuclear-researchers-warns-of-future-work-205171">US</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-slaps-sanctions-on-iran-nuclear-researchers-warns-of-future-work-205171"> slaps sanctions on Iran nuclear researchers, warns of future work</a>

The United States on Friday imposed sanctions on Iranian nuclear researchers, saying it wanted to warn young scientists to steer clear of any future effort to build a bomb.

Sanctioning 14 individuals and 17 entities, US officials acknowledged that the nuclear work was in the past but said Washington wanted to make the targeted figures "radioactive."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-hails-end-of-is-caliphate-vows-to-remain-vigilant-205175">Trump hails </a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-hails-end-of-is-caliphate-vows-to-remain-vigilant-205175">end</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-hails-end-of-is-caliphate-vows-to-remain-vigilant-205175"> of IS 'caliphate,' vows to remain 'vigilant'</a>

President Donald Trump hailed the end of the Islamic State group's "caliphate" Saturday, vowing that the United States would remain "vigilant" against the diehard jihadists.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fix-to-737-max-anti-stall-software-is-ready-industry-sources-205177">Fix to 737 MAX anti-stall software is ready: Industry sources</a>

A fix to the anti-stall system suspected in the crash of a Boeing 737 MAX 8 jet that killed 189 people in Indonesia is ready, industry sources said Saturday, as the company tries to avoid a lengthy grounding of its planes.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/serena-williams-withdraws-from-miami-open-with-knee-injury-205167">Serena Williams withdraws from Miami Open with </a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/serena-williams-withdraws-from-miami-open-with-knee-injury-205167">knee</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/serena-williams-withdraws-from-miami-open-with-knee-injury-205167"> injury</a>

Serena Williams withdrew from the WTA and ATP Masters Miami Open on Saturday with a left knee injury.

The 23-time Grand Slam champion's withdrawal comes a day after she beat Sweden's Rebecca Peterson in three sets to reach the third round.

Thailand election: Polls open, Thai King urges people to support 'good' to prevent 'chaos' Polls in Thai election opened on Sunday. This is the first time the country is going to general elections since the 2014 coup.

Thailand election: Polls open, Thai King urges people to support 'good' to prevent 'chaos' Polls in Thai election opened on Sunday. This is the first time the country is going to general elections since the 2014 coup. Polls opened "at 92,320 polling stations across the country," Election Commission secretary-general Jarungvich Phumma told AFP. US slaps sanctions on Iran nuclear researchers, warns of future work The United States on Friday imposed sanctions on Iranian nuclear researchers, saying it wanted to warn young scientists to steer clear of any future effort to build a bomb. Sanctioning 14 individuals and 17 entities, US officials acknowledged that the nuclear work was in the past but said Washington wanted to make the targeted figures "radioactive." Trump hails end of IS 'caliphate,' vows to remain 'vigilant' President Donald Trump hailed the end of the Islamic State group's "caliphate" Saturday, vowing that the United States would remain "vigilant" against the diehard jihadists. Fix to 737 MAX anti-stall software is ready: Industry sources A fix to the anti-stall system suspected in the crash of a Boeing 737 MAX 8 jet that killed 189 people in Indonesia is ready, industry sources said Saturday, as the company tries to avoid a lengthy grounding of its planes. Serena Williams withdraws from Miami Open with knee injury Serena Williams withdrew from the WTA and ATP Masters Miami Open on Saturday with a left knee injury. The 23-time Grand Slam champion's withdrawal comes a day after she beat Sweden's Rebecca Peterson in three sets to reach the third round.

News brief: Big stories of the day

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/serena-williams-retires-from-3rd-round-match-at-indian-wells-202434">Serena Williams</a> withdrew from the WTA and ATP Masters Miami Open on Saturday with a left knee injury.

The 23-time Grand Slam champion's withdrawal comes a day after she beat Sweden's Rebecca Peterson in three sets to reach the third round.

"I am disappointed to withdraw from the Miami Open due to a left knee injury," said Williams, an eight-time winner in Miami who has completed just seven matches this year.

The 37-year-old superstar, now ranked 10th in the world, appeared to be moving freely against Peterson, but said she needed to play better than she did in a 6-3, 1-6, 6-1 win.

She was next scheduled to face 18th-seeded Wang Qiang, who advances to the fourth round by walkover.

Williams fell in a three-set battle with Czech Karolina Pliskova in the quarter-finals of the Australian Open in January.

In her first tournament since then, at Indian Wells this month, she defeated former world number one Victoria Azarenka in her opening match but then retired while trailing against another former No. 1, Garbine Muguruza, with a viral illness.

Serena Williams withdrew from the WTA and ATP Masters Miami Open on Saturday with a left knee injury. The 23-time Grand Slam champion's withdrawal comes a day after she beat Sweden's Rebecca Peterson in three sets to reach the third round.

Serena Williams withdrew from the WTA and ATP Masters Miami Open on Saturday with a left knee injury. The 23-time Grand Slam champion's withdrawal comes a day after she beat Sweden's Rebecca Peterson in three sets to reach the third round. "I am disappointed to withdraw from the Miami Open due to a left knee injury," said Williams, an eight-time winner in Miami who has completed just seven matches this year. The 37-year-old superstar, now ranked 10th in the world, appeared to be moving freely against Peterson, but said she needed to play better than she did in a 6-3, 1-6, 6-1 win. She was next scheduled to face 18th-seeded Wang Qiang, who advances to the fourth round by walkover. Williams fell in a three-set battle with Czech Karolina Pliskova in the quarter-finals of the Australian Open in January. In her first tournament since then, at Indian Wells this month, she defeated former world number one Victoria Azarenka in her opening match but then retired while trailing against another former No. 1, Garbine Muguruza, with a viral illness.

Serena Williams withdraws from Miami Open with knee injury

World number two Simona Halep survived a tough challenge from Ukrainian qualifier Kateryna Kozlova to win their third round match 7-6(3), 7-5 at the BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells, California, on Sunday.

The Romanian finally put away the 114th ranked Kozlova with eight consecutive points in the second set, a backhand winner proving the decider just as it had in the first set.

"It was difficult for me to close out those sets," Halep told reporters, praising Kozlova.

"When I was leading the match, she played without fear."

The victory advanced the French Open champion, who won Indian Wells in 2015, to the fourth round for the fifth time in six years.

The meeting was the first between the pair and featured big momentum swings.

After Kozlova claimed a 3-2 advantage in the first set, Halep won three consecutive games to go to set point at 5-3 on Kozlova's serve.

With the former world number one's groundstrokes failing her, Kozlova reeled off 11 of the next 12 points, breaking back for 5-5 with a forehand winner.

Halep finally won the set on her third opportunity with another trademark backhand down the line.

The Romanian took four successive games for a 5-2 lead in the second set, but Kozlova again rallied to even the match at 5-5 before Halep reeled off the eight straight points to seal the win.

World number two Simona Halep survived a tough challenge from Ukrainian qualifier Kateryna Kozlova to win their third round match 7-6(3), 7-5 at the BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells, California, on Sunday.

World number two Simona Halep survived a tough challenge from Ukrainian qualifier Kateryna Kozlova to win their third round match 7-6(3), 7-5 at the BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells, California, on Sunday. The Romanian finally put away the 114th ranked Kozlova with eight consecutive points in the second set, a backhand winner proving the decider just as it had in the first set. "It was difficult for me to close out those sets," Halep told reporters, praising Kozlova. "When I was leading the match, she played without fear." The victory advanced the French Open champion, who won Indian Wells in 2015, to the fourth round for the fifth time in six years. The meeting was the first between the pair and featured big momentum swings. After Kozlova claimed a 3-2 advantage in the first set, Halep won three consecutive games to go to set point at 5-3 on Kozlova's serve. With the former world number one's groundstrokes failing her, Kozlova reeled off 11 of the next 12 points, breaking back for 5-5 with a forehand winner. Halep finally won the set on her third opportunity with another trademark backhand down the line. The Romanian took four successive games for a 5-2 lead in the second set, but Kozlova again rallied to even the match at 5-5 before Halep reeled off the eight straight points to seal the win.

Simona Halep claims tough win over qualifier Kateryna Kozlova

Serena Williams retired with a viral illness from her third-round WTA match at Indian Wells on Sunday while trailing Garbine Muguruza 6-3, 1-0 in a battle of former world number ones.&nbsp;

Williams, a 23-time Grand Slam champion, was seeded 10th as she continues to work her way back up the rankings in the wake of time off to have a baby.

She got off to a strong start, winning the first three games of the match, but called for the trainer after losing six straight to the Spaniard.&nbsp;

After a long talk with the trainer, Williams took the court for the second set, but called it a day after Muguruza held at love in the opening game.&nbsp;

It was a disappointing end to Williams's second tournament of 2019, after a quarter-final exit at the Australian Open.&nbsp;

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Leads Serena Williams 6-3!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BNPPO19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BNPPO19</a> <a href="https://t.co/dfUaCDjEZq">pic.twitter.com/dfUaCDjEZq</a>
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Williams and Muguruza were meeting for the sixth time. All five of their prior matches came in Grand Slams, the last two in Grand Slam finals with Williams winning at Wimbledon in 2015 and Muguruza walking off with the 2016 French Open crown.&nbsp;

"We've played many times and it's always super-tough, super-exciting," said Muguruza, currently ranked 20th in the world. "I wish I'm going to see her soon and feeling better."&nbsp;

Muguruza said she first realized that Williams&nbsp;wasn't feeling well when she sought the trainer after the opening set.&nbsp;

"I think she started playing well, right away with her serve, with her shots, being very dominating," Muguruza said. "I had to adapt a little bit my position in the court, the way I was hitting. It took me a few games to do it. Once I did I felt much more comfortable to be able to release my tennis."&nbsp;

Muguruza next faces seventh-seeded Kiki Bertens of the Netherlands, a 7-6 (12/10), 6-4 winner over Britain's Johanna Konta.&nbsp;

Serena Williams retired with a viral illness from her third-round WTA match at Indian Wells on Sunday while trailing Garbine Muguruza 6-3, 1-0 in a battle of former world number ones.

Serena Williams retired with a viral illness from her third-round WTA match at Indian Wells on Sunday while trailing Garbine Muguruza 6-3, 1-0 in a battle of former world number ones. Williams, a 23-time Grand Slam champion, was seeded 10th as she continues to work her way back up the rankings in the wake of time off to have a baby. She got off to a strong start, winning the first three games of the match, but called for the trainer after losing six straight to the Spaniard. After a long talk with the trainer, Williams took the court for the second set, but called it a day after Muguruza held at love in the opening game. It was a disappointing end to Williams's second tournament of 2019, after a quarter-final exit at the Australian Open. First set to @GarbiMuguruza ! Leads Serena Williams 6-3!#BNPPO19 pic.twitter.com/dfUaCDjEZq — WTA (@WTA) March 10, 2019 × Williams and Muguruza were meeting for the sixth time. All five of their prior matches came in Grand Slams, the last two in Grand Slam finals with Williams winning at Wimbledon in 2015 and Muguruza walking off with the 2016 French Open crown. "We've played many times and it's always super-tough, super-exciting," said Muguruza, currently ranked 20th in the world. "I wish I'm going to see her soon and feeling better." Muguruza said she first realized that Williams wasn't feeling well when she sought the trainer after the opening set. "I think she started playing well, right away with her serve, with her shots, being very dominating," Muguruza said. "I had to adapt a little bit my position in the court, the way I was hitting. It took me a few games to do it. Once I did I felt much more comfortable to be able to release my tennis." Muguruza next faces seventh-seeded Kiki Bertens of the Netherlands, a 7-6 (12/10), 6-4 winner over Britain's Johanna Konta.

Serena Williams retires from 3rd round match at Indian Wells

A year after returning from break, Serena Williams was handed a tough draw at the BNP Paribas Open.

The 23-time major champion could end up facing former World number one Victoria Azarenka in a second-round match, as the full draw was revealed on Monday.

Number ten seed Williams was drawn into the same quarter of the draw as number four seed Sloane Stephens and number seven seed Kiki Bertens in the bottom half, and she will face either Azarenka or Vera Lapko after an opening-round match.

Azarenka has already the upper hand over Williams and she defeated her in the finals of the 2016 tournament.

Williams is up for an uphill task as even if she manages to win her second-round match, she could end up facing number 20 seed and two-time major champion Garbine Muguruza.In other quarters of the second half, number two seed Simona Halep will face the winner of Barbora Strycova or a qualifier first up.

On the top half of the draw, a rematch of the recent loss looms over the defending champion and top seed Naomi Osaka.

She will face either Kristina Mladenovic or Zheng Saisai in her first match at the tournament this year.&nbsp;

A year after returning from break, Serena Williams was handed a tough draw at the BNP Paribas Open. The 23-time major champion could end up facing former World number one Victoria Azarenka in a second-round match, as the full draw was revealed on Monday.

A year after returning from break, Serena Williams was handed a tough draw at the BNP Paribas Open. The 23-time major champion could end up facing former World number one Victoria Azarenka in a second-round match, as the full draw was revealed on Monday. Number ten seed Williams was drawn into the same quarter of the draw as number four seed Sloane Stephens and number seven seed Kiki Bertens in the bottom half, and she will face either Azarenka or Vera Lapko after an opening-round match. Azarenka has already the upper hand over Williams and she defeated her in the finals of the 2016 tournament. Williams is up for an uphill task as even if she manages to win her second-round match, she could end up facing number 20 seed and two-time major champion Garbine Muguruza.In other quarters of the second half, number two seed Simona Halep will face the winner of Barbora Strycova or a qualifier first up. On the top half of the draw, a rematch of the recent loss looms over the defending champion and top seed Naomi Osaka. She will face either Kristina Mladenovic or Zheng Saisai in her first match at the tournament this year.

Serena Williams handed tough draw in Paribas Open

A controversial Australian newspaper <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/cheating-sexism-and-now-racism-serena-williams-cartoon-depiction-divides-twitter-165034">cartoon of Serena Williams</a> which was blasted as racist and sexist did not breach media standards, the country's press watchdog ruled Monday.&nbsp;

Melbourne Herald-Sun illustrator Mark Knight's caricature in September showed a butch and fat-lipped Williams throwing a temper tantrum at last year's US Open after losing to Naomi Osaka.

It sparked widespread condemnation across the world, including from Harry Potter author JK Rowling and the Washington Post, which likened it to the era of racial segregation in the United States.

The Herald-Sun <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/australian-newspaper-defies-criticism-reprints-serena-williams-cartoon-165199">defiantly republished the cartoon</a> on its front page in the wake of the criticism under the headline "WELCOME TO PC WORLD".

The Australian Press Council received complaints that Williams' depiction "may cause it to be an offensive and sexist representation of a woman and a prejudicial racial stereotype of African-American people generally".

It said there was concern about her being shown with "large lips, a broad flat nose, a wild afro-styled ponytail hairstyle different to that worn by Ms Williams during the match and positioned in an ape-like pose".

But it accepted that the newspaper's intent was simply to depict her behaviour as "childish by showing her spitting a pacifier out while she jumps up and down". "The Council considers that the cartoon uses exaggeration and absurdity to make its point," it said.

"It accepts the publisher's claim that it does not depict Ms Williams as an ape, rather showing her as 'spitting the dummy', a non-racist caricature familiar to most Australian readers."&nbsp;

The Council did acknowledge that some readers found it offensive, but added that there was "sufficient public interest in commenting on behaviour and sportsmanship during a significant dispute between a tennis player with a globally high profile and an umpire at the US Open final".

"As such, the Council does not consider that the publication failed to take reasonable steps to avoid causing substantial offence, distress or prejudice, without sufficient justification in the public interest."&nbsp;

The furore followed 23-time Grand Slam champion Williams smashing her racquet and calling the umpire a "thief" and a "liar" during her Flushing Meadows meltdown.

At the time, Knight -- who has a reputation for controversial cartoons -- said the uproar was a sign that the "world has just gone crazy".

"The cartoon about Serena is about her poor behaviour on the day, not about race," he said.

Australia is a highly multicultural country, but also sees occasional public dust-ups about the use of racially and sexually loaded language.&nbsp;

A controversial Australian newspaper cartoon of Serena Williams which was blasted as racist and sexist did not breach media standards, the country's press watchdog ruled Monday.

A controversial Australian newspaper cartoon of Serena Williams which was blasted as racist and sexist did not breach media standards, the country's press watchdog ruled Monday. Melbourne Herald-Sun illustrator Mark Knight's caricature in September showed a butch and fat-lipped Williams throwing a temper tantrum at last year's US Open after losing to Naomi Osaka. It sparked widespread condemnation across the world, including from Harry Potter author JK Rowling and the Washington Post, which likened it to the era of racial segregation in the United States. The Herald-Sun defiantly republished the cartoon on its front page in the wake of the criticism under the headline "WELCOME TO PC WORLD". The Australian Press Council received complaints that Williams' depiction "may cause it to be an offensive and sexist representation of a woman and a prejudicial racial stereotype of African-American people generally". It said there was concern about her being shown with "large lips, a broad flat nose, a wild afro-styled ponytail hairstyle different to that worn by Ms Williams during the match and positioned in an ape-like pose". But it accepted that the newspaper's intent was simply to depict her behaviour as "childish by showing her spitting a pacifier out while she jumps up and down". "The Council considers that the cartoon uses exaggeration and absurdity to make its point," it said. "It accepts the publisher's claim that it does not depict Ms Williams as an ape, rather showing her as 'spitting the dummy', a non-racist caricature familiar to most Australian readers." The Council did acknowledge that some readers found it offensive, but added that there was "sufficient public interest in commenting on behaviour and sportsmanship during a significant dispute between a tennis player with a globally high profile and an umpire at the US Open final". "As such, the Council does not consider that the publication failed to take reasonable steps to avoid causing substantial offence, distress or prejudice, without sufficient justification in the public interest." The furore followed 23-time Grand Slam champion Williams smashing her racquet and calling the umpire a "thief" and a "liar" during her Flushing Meadows meltdown. At the time, Knight -- who has a reputation for controversial cartoons -- said the uproar was a sign that the "world has just gone crazy". "The cartoon about Serena is about her poor behaviour on the day, not about race," he said. Australia is a highly multicultural country, but also sees occasional public dust-ups about the use of racially and sexually loaded language.

Serena Williams cartoon given Australian all-clear

Tennis star Serena Williams appeared at the 2019 Academy Awards wearing a red and black gown. Her bodice featured a ruby-red shimmer that complemented the glamorous ceremony that the world knows as Oscars.&nbsp;

She completed her look with diamond drop earrings.&nbsp;

In pics: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/photos/oscars-red-carpet-jennifer-lopez-chadwick-boseman-rami-malek-turn-up-the-heat-199465">Oscars red carpet: Jennifer Lopez, Chadwick Boseman, Rami Malek turn up the heat</a>

At the ceremony, Serena introduced the film 'A Star Is Born', which was nominated&nbsp;among the films up for Best Picture at the Oscars.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/entertainment/oscars-2019-live-hollywoods-biggest-night-is-here-199432">Click here</a> to get live updates of&nbsp;2019 Academy Awards

While discussing the movies, she said, "When we are young, we all have dreams of what we can accomplish in life."&nbsp;

"Having the dream is easy. Making it come true is hard," Serena added.&nbsp;

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Serena Williams slays at <a href="https://twitter.com/TheAcademy?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TheAcademy</a> Awards! 
 
Roll out the red carpet and relive your favorite WTA stars enjoying the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Oscars?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Oscars</a> and the after parties 🎬📸--&gt; <a href="https://t.co/7GI1Vmox9T">https://t.co/7GI1Vmox9T</a> <a href="https://t.co/0uqspN8uwh">pic.twitter.com/0uqspN8uwh</a>
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Released in 2018, 'A Star Is Born' is an American film produced and directed by Bradley Cooper.&nbsp;

It features Cooper, Lady Gaga, Dave Chappelle, Andrew Dice Clay and Sam Elliott.&nbsp;

Tennis star Serena Williams appeared at the 2019 Academy Awards wearing a red and black gown. Her bodice featured a ruby-red shimmer that complemented the glamorous ceremony that the world knows as Oscars.

Tennis star Serena Williams appeared at the 2019 Academy Awards wearing a red and black gown. Her bodice featured a ruby-red shimmer that complemented the glamorous ceremony that the world knows as Oscars. She completed her look with diamond drop earrings. In pics: Oscars red carpet: Jennifer Lopez, Chadwick Boseman, Rami Malek turn up the heat At the ceremony, Serena introduced the film 'A Star Is Born', which was nominated among the films up for Best Picture at the Oscars. Click here to get live updates of 2019 Academy Awards While discussing the movies, she said, "When we are young, we all have dreams of what we can accomplish in life." "Having the dream is easy. Making it come true is hard," Serena added. Serena Williams slays at @TheAcademy Awards! Roll out the red carpet and relive your favorite WTA stars enjoying the #Oscars and the after parties 🎬📸--> https://t.co/7GI1Vmox9T pic.twitter.com/0uqspN8uwh — WTA (@WTA) February 25, 2019 × Released in 2018, 'A Star Is Born' is an American film produced and directed by Bradley Cooper. It features Cooper, Lady Gaga, Dave Chappelle, Andrew Dice Clay and Sam Elliott.

Serena Williams looks stunning in black gown at Oscars 2019

In pics: Serena Williams knocked out of Australian Open

Serena Williams on Wednesday was knocked out of the Australian Open by former world no.1 Karolina Pliskova.&nbsp;Williams squandered four match points and blew a 5-1 lead in the decider to fall to seventh seed Pliskova 6-4 4-6 7-5 in the quarter-finals.&nbsp;

"She improved her game in the second set. I was struggling a little bit against the wind. She was playing very well in the second set. I was almost in the locker room but now stand here as the winner. My mind was in the locker room at 5-1 down but I was still here. I was too passive and mentally down. She got a little bit shaky in the end. I took my chances and I won," Pliskova said after her win.

"I'm happy to play two days in a row. I like it. Naomi Osaka [her semi-final opponent] is dangerous but there is nobody more dangerous than Serena, she concluded.

By virtue of this win, Pliskova advanced to meet Japan's Naomi Osaka for a place in the final.

Serena Williams on Wednesday was knocked out of the Australian Open by former world no.1 Karolina Pliskova. Williams squandered four match points and blew a 5-1 lead in the decider to fall to seventh seed Pliskova 6-4 4-6 7-5 in the quarter-finals.

Serena Williams on Wednesday was knocked out of the Australian Open by former world no.1 Karolina Pliskova. Williams squandered four match points and blew a 5-1 lead in the decider to fall to seventh seed Pliskova 6-4 4-6 7-5 in the quarter-finals. "She improved her game in the second set. I was struggling a little bit against the wind. She was playing very well in the second set. I was almost in the locker room but now stand here as the winner. My mind was in the locker room at 5-1 down but I was still here. I was too passive and mentally down. She got a little bit shaky in the end. I took my chances and I won," Pliskova said after her win. "I'm happy to play two days in a row. I like it. Naomi Osaka [her semi-final opponent] is dangerous but there is nobody more dangerous than Serena, she concluded. By virtue of this win, Pliskova advanced to meet Japan's Naomi Osaka for a place in the final.

Australian Open: Serena Williams knocked out after she loses quarter-final to Karolina Pliskova

Serena Williams on Monday defeated Romanian tennis star and current world no 1 Simona Halep 6-1, 4-6, 6-4 to cruise into the quarter-final of the Australian Open.

Williams clinched the first set in the blink of an eye. It was a spectacular set from the 16th seed and she took just 20 minutes to make the world No1 look very ordinary indeed.

However, she failed to continue her dominance in the second set. Halep clinched the second set while lost the third.

Talking about her performance against Halep, Williams said, "It was an intense match and there were some incredible points. But I love playing tennis. It’s really cool to be back out playing on this court. I really needed to elevate my game. She’s the number one player in the world. I’m such a fighter. I just never give up. It’s definitely something that’s innate. It’s a miracle I’m here and I get to do something I enjoy. This is my job and it’s a super pleasure. That keeps me motivated and keep fighting for every point." &nbsp;

By virtue of this win, Williams will next face Karolina Pliskova in the quarter-finals. The seventh seed Pliskova defeated Williams in the US Open in 2016 - but Williams turned the tables on the Czech at Flushing Meadows last year.&nbsp;

The American will start as the heavy favourite, though Pliskova will have a chance with her big serve.

Serena Williams on Monday defeated Romanian tennis star and current world no 1 Simona Halep 6-1, 4-6, 6-4 to cruise into the quarter-final of the Australian Open.

Serena Williams on Monday defeated Romanian tennis star and current world no 1 Simona Halep 6-1, 4-6, 6-4 to cruise into the quarter-final of the Australian Open. Williams clinched the first set in the blink of an eye. It was a spectacular set from the 16th seed and she took just 20 minutes to make the world No1 look very ordinary indeed. However, she failed to continue her dominance in the second set. Halep clinched the second set while lost the third. Talking about her performance against Halep, Williams said, "It was an intense match and there were some incredible points. But I love playing tennis. It’s really cool to be back out playing on this court. I really needed to elevate my game. She’s the number one player in the world. I’m such a fighter. I just never give up. It’s definitely something that’s innate. It’s a miracle I’m here and I get to do something I enjoy. This is my job and it’s a super pleasure. That keeps me motivated and keep fighting for every point." By virtue of this win, Williams will next face Karolina Pliskova in the quarter-finals. The seventh seed Pliskova defeated Williams in the US Open in 2016 - but Williams turned the tables on the Czech at Flushing Meadows last year. The American will start as the heavy favourite, though Pliskova will have a chance with her big serve.

Serena Williams upsets World no1. Halep in three sets at Australian Open

Serena Williams powered into the fourth round of the Australian Open on Saturday with a 6-2 6-1 demolition of Ukrainian teenager Dayana Yastremska to continue her charge through the Melbourne Park draw.

The 37-year-old Williams, chasing a record-extending eighth Melbourne title in the professional era, barely broke sweat on a sunny afternoon at Rod Laver Arena as she sent 20 winners flying past the 57th-ranked 18-year-old.

Yastremska rolled her right ankle midway through and took a medical time-out to have her foot bandaged when trailing 4-1 in the second set.

It stalled defeat only briefly, however, as Williams broke her a third time in the set and claimed the match when the Ukrainian sprayed a cross-court forehand wide.

Williams will play the winner of the match between her older sister Venus and top seed Simona Halep for a place in the quarter-finals.

Serena Williams powered into the fourth round of the Australian Open on Saturday with a 6-2 6-1 demolition of Ukrainian teenager Dayana Yastremska to continue her charge through the Melbourne Park draw.

Serena Williams powered into the fourth round of the Australian Open on Saturday with a 6-2 6-1 demolition of Ukrainian teenager Dayana Yastremska to continue her charge through the Melbourne Park draw. The 37-year-old Williams, chasing a record-extending eighth Melbourne title in the professional era, barely broke sweat on a sunny afternoon at Rod Laver Arena as she sent 20 winners flying past the 57th-ranked 18-year-old. Yastremska rolled her right ankle midway through and took a medical time-out to have her foot bandaged when trailing 4-1 in the second set. It stalled defeat only briefly, however, as Williams broke her a third time in the set and claimed the match when the Ukrainian sprayed a cross-court forehand wide. Williams will play the winner of the match between her older sister Venus and top seed Simona Halep for a place in the quarter-finals.

Australian Open: Serena Williams motors into fourth round in Melbourne

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/top-seed-simona-halep-marches-on-with-clinical-win-over-venus-williams-in-melbourne-191412">Simona Halep might be the current number one </a>in women's tennis but the Romanian believes the best player in the world will be awaiting her when she takes on Serena Williams in the fourth round of the Australian Open.

The 37-year-old American took a year off after the birth of her daughter Alexis Olympia in September 2017, before returning to action last season when she reached the finals at Wimbledon and the U.S. Open.

Serena was eight weeks pregnant when she won the last of her 23 Grand Slam titles at Melbourne Park and, though she has played selective tournaments since motherhood, the American is still the player to beat in the women's draw at Grand Slams.

French Open champion Halep has topped the rankings since October, 2017.

"In my opinion, to be number one in the world and to be the best player in the world, it's a little bit different," Halep told reporters on Saturday after a 6-2 6-3 third-round win against the older Williams sister, Venus.&nbsp;

"In this moment, I`m number one in the world, so I will take that. I feel like I have been there many months, many weeks.

"But for sure she's the best player in the world because she won so many Grand Slams. She's been a lot on number one. I cannot compare my results to her. But in this moment, I'm confident that I`m in this position, and I'm positive about it."

HUGE CHALLENGE

The losses in the finals in London and New York left Serena, who is seeded 16th at Melbourne Park, still seeking a 24th Grand Slam singles title to equal Margaret Court's all-time record.

She has lost only nine games this week in her first three rounds.

"I only beat her once in my life, so I cannot say much about this match," Halep said, referring to her nine overall meetings with Serena.&nbsp;

"Just that it's going to be a huge challenge for me. It's always great to play against Serena because every time I have to learn something from the match."

Halep admitted that she used to be intimidated by Serena when she was younger but said the "great champion" will be just another opponent in the last 16 clash.

"I'm used to this pressure. I'm used to facing her," Halep said. "I'm in a good position. I feel confident. I played very well today. But that doesn't mean it's going to be the same against her.

"Definitely it's the toughest draw I've ever had... it's a huge challenge. Every time I face the (Williams) sisters is a big challenge for me. I just want to try to play my best tennis because I have nothing to lose against them."

Simona Halep might be the current number one in women's tennis but the Romanian believes the best player in the world will be awaiting her when she takes on Serena Williams in the fourth round of the Australian Open.

Simona Halep might be the current number one in women's tennis but the Romanian believes the best player in the world will be awaiting her when she takes on Serena Williams in the fourth round of the Australian Open. The 37-year-old American took a year off after the birth of her daughter Alexis Olympia in September 2017, before returning to action last season when she reached the finals at Wimbledon and the U.S. Open. Serena was eight weeks pregnant when she won the last of her 23 Grand Slam titles at Melbourne Park and, though she has played selective tournaments since motherhood, the American is still the player to beat in the women's draw at Grand Slams. French Open champion Halep has topped the rankings since October, 2017. "In my opinion, to be number one in the world and to be the best player in the world, it's a little bit different," Halep told reporters on Saturday after a 6-2 6-3 third-round win against the older Williams sister, Venus. "In this moment, I`m number one in the world, so I will take that. I feel like I have been there many months, many weeks. "But for sure she's the best player in the world because she won so many Grand Slams. She's been a lot on number one. I cannot compare my results to her. But in this moment, I'm confident that I`m in this position, and I'm positive about it." HUGE CHALLENGE The losses in the finals in London and New York left Serena, who is seeded 16th at Melbourne Park, still seeking a 24th Grand Slam singles title to equal Margaret Court's all-time record. She has lost only nine games this week in her first three rounds. "I only beat her once in my life, so I cannot say much about this match," Halep said, referring to her nine overall meetings with Serena. "Just that it's going to be a huge challenge for me. It's always great to play against Serena because every time I have to learn something from the match." Halep admitted that she used to be intimidated by Serena when she was younger but said the "great champion" will be just another opponent in the last 16 clash. "I'm used to this pressure. I'm used to facing her," Halep said. "I'm in a good position. I feel confident. I played very well today. But that doesn't mean it's going to be the same against her. "Definitely it's the toughest draw I've ever had... it's a huge challenge. Every time I face the (Williams) sisters is a big challenge for me. I just want to try to play my best tennis because I have nothing to lose against them."

Australian Open: World no.1 Simona Halep geared up for best player Serena Williams

Former world number one Steffi Graf has backed <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=serena+williams">Serena Williams</a> to match and even beat Margaret Court's record 24 Grand Slam titles.&nbsp;

The 37-year-old Serena has won 23 Grand Slam trophies and is bidding to overtake Court's mark at the ongoing Australian Open.&nbsp;

In the previous season, Serena missed opportunities to equal Australian Court on her return from maternity leave, losing in the final of Wimbledon and the US&nbsp;Open.&nbsp;

While Graf said that Serena's determination and experience will get her over the line.&nbsp;

"I don't know if she can do it here (equal the record) but I believe she can absolutely," Graf told the Melbourne Herald Sun on Thursday.&nbsp;

Serena pulled clear of Graf's 22 by winning at Melbourne Park in 2017 while eight weeks pregnant and many already consider her the greatest of all time.&nbsp;

"Her game, her serve being such an incredible weapon. I think she at any time is dangerous," Graf added.&nbsp;

"With the experience she's had, she's still so determined and if she enjoys it why not? If her body holds up I do believe she has a big chance (to pass Court)."

Graf, who won four Australian Opens among her 22 titles, said Williams would almost certainly go down as the greatest ever women's player, given today's standards are so much higher.&nbsp;

"I would probably say with the career she's had, that she's not even finished at this point, then yes, I would say so," she said.&nbsp;

"I think that no player will be able to beat my record of 64 Grand Slam titles in total," she said.&nbsp;

Former world number one Steffi Graf has backed Serena Williams to match and even beat Margaret Court's record 24 Grand Slam titles. The 37-year-old Serena has won 23 Grand Slam trophies and is bidding to overtake Court's mark at the ongoing Australian Open.

Former world number one Steffi Graf has backed Serena Williams to match and even beat Margaret Court's record 24 Grand Slam titles. The 37-year-old Serena has won 23 Grand Slam trophies and is bidding to overtake Court's mark at the ongoing Australian Open. In the previous season, Serena missed opportunities to equal Australian Court on her return from maternity leave, losing in the final of Wimbledon and the US Open. While Graf said that Serena's determination and experience will get her over the line. "I don't know if she can do it here (equal the record) but I believe she can absolutely," Graf told the Melbourne Herald Sun on Thursday. Serena pulled clear of Graf's 22 by winning at Melbourne Park in 2017 while eight weeks pregnant and many already consider her the greatest of all time. "Her game, her serve being such an incredible weapon. I think she at any time is dangerous," Graf added. "With the experience she's had, she's still so determined and if she enjoys it why not? If her body holds up I do believe she has a big chance (to pass Court)." Graf, who won four Australian Opens among her 22 titles, said Williams would almost certainly go down as the greatest ever women's player, given today's standards are so much higher. "I would probably say with the career she's had, that she's not even finished at this point, then yes, I would say so," she said. "I think that no player will be able to beat my record of 64 Grand Slam titles in total," she said.

Steffi Graf backs Serena to surpass Margaret Court's Grand Slam record

In pics: Highlights of Day 4 of the Australian Open

Serena Williams soundly beat Eugenie Bouchard 6-2, 6-2 on Thursday night, racing through the last five games to advance to the third round of the Australian Open.&nbsp;

Easily beaten in the first set, the Canadian Bouchard, a former Wimbledon finalist who has been trying to retrieve her stellar form of five years ago, pressed early in the second to lead two games to one.&nbsp;

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Ever wondered where <a href="https://twitter.com/serenawilliams?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@serenawilliams</a> keeps ALL her trophies - especially the one that <a href="https://twitter.com/Venuseswilliams?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Venuseswilliams</a> gave to her at eight years of age? 🤔<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> <a href="https://t.co/5ncbSbnDNo">pic.twitter.com/5ncbSbnDNo</a>
— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen/status/1085860996437155840?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 17, 2019</a></blockquote>
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A <a href="https://twitter.com/serenawilliams?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@serenawilliams</a> victory dance 💃✌️<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> <a href="https://t.co/ndrEIv1Omp">pic.twitter.com/ndrEIv1Omp</a>
— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen/status/1085859689190047744?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 17, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Williams responded in dominant fashion, however, and did not drop another game on her way to ending the match with a drive-volley winner.&nbsp;

The American is vying for a record-equalling 24th Grand Slam singles title, and will play Ukraine's Dayana Yastremska in the third round.&nbsp;

Serena Williams soundly beat Eugenie Bouchard 6-2, 6-2 on Thursday night, racing through the last five games to advance to the third round of the Australian Open.

Serena Williams soundly beat Eugenie Bouchard 6-2, 6-2 on Thursday night, racing through the last five games to advance to the third round of the Australian Open. Easily beaten in the first set, the Canadian Bouchard, a former Wimbledon finalist who has been trying to retrieve her stellar form of five years ago, pressed early in the second to lead two games to one. Ever wondered where @serenawilliams keeps ALL her trophies - especially the one that @Venuseswilliams gave to her at eight years of age? 🤔#AusOpen pic.twitter.com/5ncbSbnDNo — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 17, 2019 × A @serenawilliams victory dance 💃✌️#AusOpen pic.twitter.com/ndrEIv1Omp — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 17, 2019 × Williams responded in dominant fashion, however, and did not drop another game on her way to ending the match with a drive-volley winner. The American is vying for a record-equalling 24th Grand Slam singles title, and will play Ukraine's Dayana Yastremska in the third round.

Australian Open: Serena Williams comfortably beats Bouchard to enter third round

As Australia sizzles, 'Serena-tard' clashes with tennis dress code

Serena Williams' on-court outfits are almost more of a talking point than her matches these days.&nbsp;On Tuesday also, American star Williams had sent the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/serena-williams-returns-to-australian-open-with-emphatic-win-defeats-tatjana-maria-in-straight-sets-190342">tennis world into a frenzy with her latest outfit at the Australian Open.</a>

Williams, who won the 2017 Open while she was pregnant with her first child, appeared in a sporty turquoise Nike romper with white and black stripes.

According to a statement from Nike, which also sponsors Australian Nick Kyrgios, the Australian Open collection "takes inspiration from early Nike Tennis DNA... This look was made iconic by Andre Agassi in the '90s".

In his playing days, Agassi, who coaches Bulgarian 20th-seed Grigor Dimitrov, made bold on-court choices including denim shorts and neon colours, with the exception of Wimbledon, which has a strict white dress code.

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Speeding through 🏃‍♀️<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> <a href="https://t.co/tNl9kmFdUT">pic.twitter.com/tNl9kmFdUT</a>
— #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) <a href="https://twitter.com/AustralianOpen/status/1084999177317171200?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Tennis world and the fans inside Rod Laver Arena certainly liked her new look and roared with delight at the reveal.

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Serena Williams back in Melbourne and her new outfit gets a roar of approval inside RLA.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/OmnisportNews?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@OmnisportNews</a> <a href="https://t.co/UoMpMYod6D">pic.twitter.com/UoMpMYod6D</a>
— Sacha Pisani (@Sachk0) <a href="https://twitter.com/Sachk0/status/1084991541091885057?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Serena?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Serena</a> always stirs the fashion milkshake. Here she sports a stunning green bodysuits with interesting mesh stockings.
— INSIDE TENNIS (@BillSimons1) <a href="https://twitter.com/BillSimons1/status/1084991729948708864?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Serena gave that hair some volume😀😀 but waiting to see what looks like a new green outfit. 👗👗🤔🤔 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AusOpen?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AusOpen</a>
— Juliet Bawuah (@julietbawuah) <a href="https://twitter.com/julietbawuah/status/1084990303843610625?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Williams made a return to the Australian Open court with a win as the American tennis star defeated Tatjana Maria in straight sets 6-0, 6-2 to move into the second round.

Serena Williams' on-court outfits are almost more of a talking point than her matches these days. On Tuesday also, American star Williams had sent the tennis world into a frenzy with her latest outfit at the Australian Open.

Serena Williams' on-court outfits are almost more of a talking point than her matches these days. On Tuesday also, American star Williams had sent the tennis world into a frenzy with her latest outfit at the Australian Open. Williams, who won the 2017 Open while she was pregnant with her first child, appeared in a sporty turquoise Nike romper with white and black stripes. According to a statement from Nike, which also sponsors Australian Nick Kyrgios, the Australian Open collection "takes inspiration from early Nike Tennis DNA... This look was made iconic by Andre Agassi in the '90s". In his playing days, Agassi, who coaches Bulgarian 20th-seed Grigor Dimitrov, made bold on-court choices including denim shorts and neon colours, with the exception of Wimbledon, which has a strict white dress code. Speeding through 🏃‍♀️#AusOpen pic.twitter.com/tNl9kmFdUT — #AusOpen (@AustralianOpen) January 15, 2019 × Tennis world and the fans inside Rod Laver Arena certainly liked her new look and roared with delight at the reveal. Serena Williams back in Melbourne and her new outfit gets a roar of approval inside RLA.#AusOpen @OmnisportNews pic.twitter.com/UoMpMYod6D — Sacha Pisani (@Sachk0) January 15, 2019 × #Serena always stirs the fashion milkshake. Here she sports a stunning green bodysuits with interesting mesh stockings. — INSIDE TENNIS (@BillSimons1) January 15, 2019 × Serena gave that hair some volume😀😀 but waiting to see what looks like a new green outfit. 👗👗🤔🤔 #AusOpen — Juliet Bawuah (@julietbawuah) January 15, 2019 × Williams made a return to the Australian Open court with a win as the American tennis star defeated Tatjana Maria in straight sets 6-0, 6-2 to move into the second round.

A look at Serena Williams 90s-inspired 'fashion milkshake' at Australian Open

Serena Williams made a return to the Australian Open court with a win as the American tennis star defeated Tatjana Maria in straight sets 6-0, 6-2 to move into the second round.

While the German, Maria, struggled to settle and find her game but across the net, Williams had no such problems. Maria had no answers to Williams' powerful game for most parts of the match

Although Maria picked herself up in the second set, holding serve twice, it was way too late for her.

Williams pocketed the win on Maria's serve in the eighth game, on her second match point. She had high winning percentage margins both on her first and second serves – 82% and 88% respectively.&nbsp;

The former world no.1 converted five of the eight break points she had, and did not face a single break point on her own serve.&nbsp;

Serena Williams made a return to the Australian Open court with a win as the American tennis star defeated Tatjana Maria in straight sets 6-0, 6-2 to move into the second round.

Serena Williams made a return to the Australian Open court with a win as the American tennis star defeated Tatjana Maria in straight sets 6-0, 6-2 to move into the second round. While the German, Maria, struggled to settle and find her game but across the net, Williams had no such problems. Maria had no answers to Williams' powerful game for most parts of the match Although Maria picked herself up in the second set, holding serve twice, it was way too late for her. Williams pocketed the win on Maria's serve in the eighth game, on her second match point. She had high winning percentage margins both on her first and second serves – 82% and 88% respectively. The former world no.1 converted five of the eight break points she had, and did not face a single break point on her own serve.

Serena Williams returns to Australian Open with emphatic win, defeats Tatjana Maria in straight sets

Mum's the word: Serena has fences to mend

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