Justine Henin and Serena Williams spoke to reporters in Madrid ahead of the Sony Ericsson WTA Championships. Henin and Williams are in the Red Group for the round-robin portion of the event.
Justine Henin
"When I remember how I was in January, my state of mind, coming back to the Tour in February was like starting it all over again. I had to fight against many emotions, my mind was racing. It's been a difficult year but I kept myself focused and positive. Many things have happened that strengthened my game."
"I expect a tough battle and I hate to lose against anyone. But here you have the best players in the world and you have to be 100% to win the title. It will be a physical challenge. When you play a Grand Slam tournament, you don't expect a very high level for the first couple of rounds. Here, you must be aware because we are all in the same condition. Apart from that, you play five matches in six days if you make it to the final."
"I don't want to make comments about Martina [Hingis]. We all want to keep this sport clean because we all try our best. I think it's a great sport and we must emphazise the good part of tennis."
Serena Williams
"Not many people thought I could make it to Madrid. When the season started I was ranked really low and it's a huge accomplishment for me to be here. Deep inside, I thought this could happen."
"My sister and I, we have influenced the change of women's tennis. Now a lot of girls hit the ball harder."
"I like to have her [Henin] in my group. It will be fun to play her again since she's the No. 1 in the world."
On Martina Hingis: "I'll just talk about the players that are here."
"Ronaldinho? I love him, he's my favourite player. He plays in Real Madrid, doesn't he? [Actually Barcelona]"