Williams decides on retirement date: 'However long Federer plays, I'll play'

Instead she said she will time it with the Swiss legend and will retire when he does from the sport at a recent Forbes Summit on Monday.

“I feel like I love what I do and I feel like when I’m out there I’m the best at what I do.

However long Roger Federer plays, I’ll play."

Williams also spoke about being inspired by other sportsmen and sportswomen: “Athletes across the board, basketball, tennis, football … they’re playing into their 40s.

That would have never have happened a decade ago or 20 years ago. I’m part of a new generation that was really fortunate to work with better technology, equipment and shoes. And, even knowing how to take care of your body.

So, your body, even though it’s at a certain age, it actually feels like it’s much younger. Everyone says it, but they don’t put the work in. I wasn’t the best player, I wasn’t the most talented, by far not the tallest.

You don’t have to be the smartest. You don’t have to have the most money. You don’t have to have the most open doors for you. You have to have the attitude that you’re going to be the hardest worker. [Say to yourself] ‘I’m not going to let anything stop me. I’m not going to give up.’”