The retired Li Na says she is still taking an interest in tennis even though she is no longer playing on tour, seeing established WTA players like Serena Williams, Maria Sharapova, and Petra Kvitova having more success and liking the prospects of younger players like Kei Nishikori, Madison Keys, and Garbine Muguruza.
In an interview with The New York Times, Li was quoted as saying, "Serena is always tough. As long as she wants to be at the top, she will be, because she is such a good player with a mind of a champion. I think Maria Sharapova is going to have a great year. She is just so committed to the sport and will always give herself a chance. Petra Kvitova is definitely going to have a big year, she really worked on her fitness and has gotten so much quicker on the court. She is always the player to beat."
The two-time Grand Slam champion also mentioned some up-and-comers to watch. "It is nice to see younger girls playing well like Madison Keys and Garbine Muguruza," she said. "I see both of them as future Grand Slam champions. Madison is so talented and has a big future. There is a whole new generation of young players who are so talented and that is so great for fans to see—definitely an exciting time for women’s tennis."
Li, who has been making frequent appearances at events since she retired last year, and has been appointed as an ambassador at some tournaments, said, "I still follow what is going on, especially with the Asian players," adding that she was pleased to see Kei Nishikori doing well. The Japanese baseliner reached the U.S. Open final and is now No. 5 in the world.
"I think he will keep improving not just on court but also in his mind. He showed so much last year of his talent but also how mentally strong he is. I think this will be a big year for him and he will keep improving," said Li. "He is a very hard worker and I am happy to see him do well. Really nice person, too."
Li, who would have been the defending champion at the Australian Open, and will be at the event in a promotional capacity.