Patrick Mouratoglou has spoken openly about how he would feel if his former player Serena Williams made a comeback to professional tennis.
Mouratoglou was by Williams’ side for a decade before their split in April 2022. She announced her retirement from the sport later that year.
Despite being over three years since she last played at the US Open, rumours of a return have surfaced again after the 44-year-old re-entered the drug testing pool, a requirement for anyone looking to compete again.
With speculation intensifying about Williams’ comeback, Mouratoglou has disclosed his true feelings regarding her potential return.
Patrick Mouratoglou says he would not be surprised if Serena Williams made a comeback
Last year, Mouratoglou seemed to dismiss the idea of Williams returning to tennis.
However, with more recent developments suggesting otherwise, he seems to have softened that view.
In an interview with L’Equipe, Mouratoglou admitted that if she were to return now, he would not be caught off guard by the decision.
Though he is not planning on returning to full-time coaching, the Frenchman did say he would be thrilled to see Williams back in action.
“With her, anything is possible. If anyone is capable of attempting such a comeback, it’s Serena.
“I wouldn’t be surprised if she returned. She loves challenges too much, and if she decides to go for it, she won’t back down. I believe in her, and it would make me so happy to see her back on the courts,” the 55-year-old stated.
Patrick Mouratoglou reflects on Serena Williams’ career under his guidance
Williams and Mouratoglou spent almost a decade working together, during which time she added significantly to her trophy haul.
Under his guidance, she claimed 10 more Grand Slam titles, setting the record for the most major women’s singles trophies in the Open Era.
The partnership also included 11 WTA 1000 titles, three WTA Finals wins and a singles gold medal at the 2012 London Olympics.
There were challenges too. The pair were involved in a notable controversy during the 2018 US Open final, where Williams lost to Naomi Osaka.
Whether Williams will return to tennis remains uncertain, with some speculating that she might reappear in doubles alongside her sister Venus.
Mouratoglou has made it clear that if Williams does decide to return to the sport, he will be fully behind her decision.
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