Coach of Harmony Tan confident of Serena Williams Wimbledon scalp: "She can't be at the top level"
WTA
Harmony Tan will play at Wimbledon for the first time and has been handed the big stage and the chance for a big scalp when she takes on Serena Williams who will return and likely play on Centre Court on Tuesday.
But for coach Sam Sumyk who has previously coached Victoria Azarenka, Garbine Muguruza to Wimbledon success and and former finalist Genie Bouchard for a short period, it is seen as a real chance.
"On the contrary, I think it’s fantastic to play this kind of match," said Sumyk to Tennis Majors. "Playing Serena at Wimbledon is a very rewarding experience, which should be part of a player’s baggage. A lot of people never get that chance. Harmony will. And it’s great to have her before Serena retires. Anyway, there’s no right or wrong draw."
"There’s a draw, full stop. Of course, Harmony will be a bit anxious, but that’s normal and even welcome. I hope there will be some excitement too, not just anxiety. I mean, it’s her first Wimbledon, she’s going to play on a big court, against Serena Williams: it’s magical, isn’t it?"
"She can’t be at the top level. She can’t be. That doesn’t mean she won’t play well. But it’s not possible for her to be at her best on the first ball she hits in singles for a year. After that, it’s still Serena. We know her serve, which can help her on grass.
Samuel GillEditor-in-Chief
Samuel Gill is the Chief Content Officer (CCO) of TennisUpToDate.com, a role he has held since 2020. He is responsible for editorial governance across the platform, including setting content standards, overseeing accuracy and consistency, and guiding long-term editorial strategy. Since joining, he has contributed more than 10,000 articles and editorial pieces across the TennisUpToDate network, playing a central role in the daily operation and development of the site.
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