PARIS, FRANCE - JUNE 3: Serena Williams of USA during Day 8 of the 2018 French Open at Roland Garros stadium on June 3, 2018 in Paris, France. Photo: Jean Catuffe (Getty Images)
After reaching her maiden Grand Slam quarterfinal at the 2024 Australian Open, Linda Noskova opened up about her admiration of WTA legend Serena Williams due to the latter’s playing style and off-court persona.
The rising Czech star advanced to the final eight in Melbourne following the withdrawal of opponent Elina Svitolina, who retired at 0-3 down in the first set of their fourth round encounter due to injury. Noskova shocked the world when she defeated World No.1 and tournament favorite Iga Swiatek in the third round, and has continued her breakout run Down Under with her first Major quarterfinal showing.
In her post-match interview, the World No.50 was asked to name her favorite players. After selecting the American superstar, Noskova also had some kind words for her Ukrainian opponent, who was forced to forfeit the match after obtaining a back injury.
“Well, when I was younger, I didn’t really watch tennis as much as… But I think when I kind of got into it, I was a big fan of Serena,” said Noskova. “I always am and always probably will be. I like her style a lot and the way she carries herself and the person that she is. She’s definitely on top of my charts.
“I would actually say that Elina might have been one of them as well. I like her style a lot. She can change the direction or the rhythm of the game really good, so I was always really appreciated of such a player that can go on the net or can do slice. I was counting on this a little for today. Unfortunately, we didn’t really get to know each other on court today, but maybe next time when we will play each other.”
