British Tennis Forum - Celebrating 20 Years!

Andy Parker wrote:

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An article in The Times Saturday suggests that Serena Williams will be seeking a wildcard into the main draw of the singles at Wimbledon.

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It's disrespectful and selfish for the Williams sisters to treat the majors as their hobby playground. There are many players trying to make a career and survive on the tour that need the experience and prize money for financial viability that dont benefit from multi million dollar endorsement deals. To deny them the opportunity just because they want to have some fun, can't give it up is just selfish. This is a premier event on the professional tour, not, as co-pilot put it, a nostalgia exhibition. Sure people want to see them and they'll generate far more media coverage than the alternatives which is why they're guaranteed wild cards if they ask, but there are other ways for these majors to showcase their talents and honour their legacy than take up a valuable spot in the draw.

If the Williams sisters and Maja get WCs that leaves 5 for Fran, Harriet, Swan, Mika and Mimi, leaving Alicia, Hannah or the next alternate missing out - not as I've said before I think Hannah should be in the frame for one. I know there is belief that Fran won't need one, and I'm confident they'll be 2 withdrawals that she would need to move her to the main draw, but I'm not confident they'll happen before qualifying starts.