Patrick Mouratoglou, the coach of Serena Williams, spoke about the American's mindset heading into the U.S. Open final with world No. 2 Victoria Azarenka. The world No. 1 has won a WTA-best eight titles this season, but has only won one Grand Slam, Roland Garros.
Williams said last month that despite her all-around success, she isn’t satisfied with her season.
“But even if she wins she would say, ‘I was upset to lose early at Wimbledon,’” he told a small group of reporters. “But two [Grand Slam titles] is better than one and it’s not far, just one match, and she will be really disappointed if she didn't win, but she will do everything that she can to win it."
Mouratoglou also called Azarenka one of the most courageous players on tour.
“She fights every single point all year. Maybe she’s a bit more confident today than one or two years ago, she’s still building herself, and the fact that playing someone like Serena is good for her because it makes her improve," he said. "It’s true for Serena too, because she’s changed also and they push each other. Vika’s mentally really, really strong.”
Mouratoglou does not expect Williams to be as nervous as she was at Wimbledon, when she lost to Sabine Lisicki before the final.
“If she’s still fresh and very focused and I’m sure she will be in the final of a Grand Slam, then I’m sure she will find the best answer,” he said. “Serena doesn't need to change her game, she has to impose her game, because that is her game, and that’s how you win the finals.”