Novak Djokovic, upon hearing that Andy Murray was willing to face hard-serving women's tennis legend Serena Williams, has issued his own challenge to Maria Sharapova, the next-biggest name in women's tennis.
'I'll play Sharapova anywhere she likes since Serena is already (playing Murray),' Djokovic said. The world No. 1 in men's tennis recently imitated Sharapova's style, sticking his butt out just like the women's star. At a Sharapova press conference, she told Djokovic that his impersonation needs work.
Both Djokovic and Sharapova are 26-year-old former Wimbledon champions, but Djokovic is faring much better than his female counterpart this year. Sharapova was shocked in the second round of this year's Wimbledon by Michelle Larcher De Brito.
According to DailyMail.com, the proposed matchup between Serena and Murray seems more likely. When asked about that matchup, Djokovic said, "I'll have to think about it, because now is the first time I've heard about it. But I guess it would be a lot of fun, fun to watch." Responding to a question about what the biggest threat Williams would pose, Djokovic said, "Game-wise or personality-wise? I don't know."
The whole idea began when a Twitter user tweeted the idea to Murray. When asked about potentially facing Williams, he said, "I'd be up for it, why not?' I've never hit with her but she's obviously an incredible player and I think people would be interested to see the men play against the women to see how the styles match up."
Between Williams and Sharapova, Williams has been far more dominant of late, running through the field to a French Open victory and defeating Sharapova in the process. Andy Murray did not participate in the French Open this year, but he is among the Wimbledon participants. He is ranked No. 2 and is set to face No. 32 Tommy Robredo.
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