The reigning Australian Open champions and World No.4 Sofia Kenin is not in great form ahead of the major event. However, she revealed how she always wanted to be a big player like Serena and Venus Williams. She is keeping a positive mind and hoping to play some exciting tennis in the first Grand Slam of 2021.
In a recent interview, Kenin was questioned about coming from a country like the United States where they already have two tennis stars in Serena and Venus Williams, how can she create recognition of her own. The 24-year old came up with a great answer.
“Yeah! definitely,” began a cheerful Kenin. “I’m trying to, you know, be special like Serena and Venus Williams. They’ve done so much to the game and really want them to keep playing, you know because they really, you know makes me, you know want to push, and you know be like them.”
Like most of the other tennis players of this generation, Kenin also draws a lot of inspiration from her legendary compatriots. Especially after what they have done in this sport for years and Kenin believes that the Williams’ sisters can continue for more years.
“You know they really inspire me. So, fingers crossed they’ll keep playing and they are playing some really good tennis now,” added the World No.4 player.
Sofia Kenin will begin her title defence at the Australian Open on 9th February as she will face local tennis star Maddison Inglis in the first round. While Kenin will obviously look to bring out her best form and play best to her ability to defend the title, injury concerns and her recent defeat to Garbine Muguruza will play on the back of her mind.
It was the rematch of last year’s Australian Open final at the WTA Yerray Valley Classic quarterfinals as Kenin went up against Muguruza. The Spaniard simply dominated the World No.4 and won the match in straight sets (6-2,6-2). So from here, it will be difficult for Kenin to pick herself up and go big at the Australian Open. It will be a test of her character and mental strength. Only time will tell whether she will be able to return to her best and put a tough title defence.
