Serena Williams demands apology from John McEnroe
She might be one of the most successful players of the modern era, but tennis ace Serena Williams is still demanding respect from some corners.
The 23-times grand slam champion has returned serve on comments from John McEnroe who in a radio interview this week said the former world number one would be ranked, “like 700 in the world” if she had to play on the men’s circuit.
In an interview with National Public Radio, McEnroe referred to Williams as “the best female player ever” but refused to give her the label as the best player overall.
"If she played the men's circuit she'd be like 700 in the world," he said.
"That doesn't mean I don't think Serena is an incredible player. I do.
"And on a given day, Serena could beat some players... But if she had to just play the circuit – the men's circuit – that would be an entirely different story."
Former world number one Williams, who has taken time off to have a baby, responded on Twitter.
Williams holds the record for most grand slams singles titles won in the professional era, five ahead of Swiss Roger Federer. She’s only one short of Australian Margaret Court’s record of 24 grand slam titles, split between professional and amateur eras.
What’s your take? Do you think Williams deserves an apology? Or are McEnroe’s comments being blown out of the water? Tell us what you think below!