Coach Torben Beltz thinks Serena Williams still has very dangerous weapons in her game and noted that Anett Kontaveit is set for a very tough challenge.
In the US Open second round, second-ranked Kontaveit faces 23-time Grand Slam champion Williams.
With Williams retiring after the US Open, Kontaveit has a chance to end the American’s singles career.
Beltz, who started working with Kontaveit this summer, described Williams as “the greatest thing for the sport.”
“I couldn’t get a ticket,” Beltz told The New York Times. “This is the biggest thing I’ve ever seen in women’s tennis. I think it’s the greatest thing for the sport, and we all have to thank Serena for all she did. Especially right now with the end coming. I think her ball speed, serve and return is really up to her prime time. I saw her other matches, and it looks like she’s improved over the last couple of weeks. She looks in better shape and looks good now. For Anett, I think the key is to just go out and try to play her best tennis but also enjoy the moment. It’s going to be a big challenge, a great challenge, but I think she wants that challenge and wants to embrace it.”
Beltz hoping to prepare good tactics for Kontaveit
Kontaveit and Williams will be going head-to-head for the first time when they meet at the US Open.
But Beltz knows Williams’ game extremely well as he is one of the respected coaches on the Tour, having led Angelique Kerber to two Grand Slam titles.
“I’ve been scouting her for a long time,” Beltz said of Williams. “Every tournament when you play good you have to scout Serena, because you know your player may have to face her. But it’s great to face a champion, I think. It’s going to be a good match tomorrow.”
Going into the match, Kontaveit can certainly expect a packed stadium, who will be on Williams’ side.