Michael Joyce, who was the former coach of Maria Sharapova, claims that the Russian had more respect for Serena Williams than any other player.
Maria Sharapova and Serena Williams had a great rivalry on the court that delivered some spectacular moments and some great matches.
The Russian burst onto the scene as a teenager, and one of the reasons why she was regarded as one of the biggest talents on the WTA Tour was her wins over Serena Williams.
The American player was obviously not too happy to see another superstar challenge her for the biggest titles, which is why she incredibly turned around their H2H.
Sharapova won two of their first three matches, but Williams then beat her Russian rival 19 times in a row, turning the H2H to her favor, 20-2. Speaking about their relationships, Sharapova's former coach, Michael Joyce, explained how Sharapova grew to respect Serena more than any other player.
"I think ultimately, Maria probably had the most respect for Serena over any player. I'm just saying this based on what I think. She never said it, but I just feel like Maria always felt that no matter who she was playing, she always had a shot. Sloane Stephens might be beating her, but Maria always felt like if she hung in there and if she was tough, she could turn it around."
Joyce also explained Sharapova's 19 consecutive losses against the legendary American. While the Russian player couldn't come up with solutions against Williams, Serena always had an ace up her sleeve.
"But there was a point with Serena where it was just like Serena's bringing her A game. I think Maria was pretty predictable in some ways about how she was playing and Serena went through that period for three to four years where she just blew her away."
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