Venus Williams’ childhood coach has message for American amid retirement talk
© Getty Images Sport – Al Bello
Venus Williams’ childhood coach Rick Macci doesn’t think that the seven-time Grand Slam champion should retire after what happened at the US Open. Williams, 43, suffered a 1-6 1-6 loss to Greet Minnen in the US Open first round.
During the match, it was evident that Williams was still bothered by a knee injury that forced her out of Cleveland last week. Throughout the entire year, Williams has been battling injuries and setbacks. “Was asked should @Venuseswilliams retire after a rough night.
My take is No way. The Compton Comet loves the Stage and loves to Compete. Hard for any champion to say I’m done. She packs the stands and everybody loves VW. The second greatest player of all time in my opinion will let us Know when she will Go,” Macci wrote on X.
Was asked should @Venuseswilliams retire after a rough night.
My take is No way.The Compton Comet loves the Stage and loves to Compete. Hard for any champion to say Im done.She packs the stands and everybody loves VW. The second greatest player of all time in my opinion will let… — Rick Macci (@RickMacci) September 1, 2023
Macci tells Williams to keep going
After her loss to Minnen, Williams was asked what would be the deciding factor in her retirement decision. “I wouldn’t tell you, so…
I don’t know. I don’t know why you’re asking (smiling),” Williams said.
Before knee injury, Williams also battled hamstring and leg injuries this year. “I definitely could have hoped for more throughout the year.
Honestly, I just had some really bad luck. I don’t think it was a lack of my body not holding up, it was just a lack of, like, really bad luck with injuries. There were things I couldn’t control. I was really happy to be here. When I had to withdraw from Cleveland, I wasn’t sure that I could be here.
I have to really thank my doctors for helping me to get here. That in itself was a blessing. I love playing here. I really gave it my all today. I really played some great shots, but she had some incredible answers to that. I wish I could have been more prepared for that,” Williams said after her US Open exit.