Mary Pierce hails exceptional qualities of Federer, Serena

Modern-time great Roger Federer has an exceptional mind for game's analysis and Serena Williams is born with a burning desire to succeed and that sets them apart from other players, says two-time singles Grand Slam winner Mary Pierce. Pierce, who won Australian Open (1995) and French Open (2000), said Federer has an array of shots which can't be taught. What I think of Roger is that the shots he plays cannot be taught by anyone. It is almost like he is born to do that," Mary, who is now retired, said on the sidelines of TCS World 10K Bengaluru 2018 here. "Why he is so good is that the love and passion he has for tennis. He practices hours together. And he passionately watches any match if he happens to see it on television or in the stadium. His coach tells me he has not seen any player talking so much about tennis and always analysing," she added. Apart from two singles majors, Pierce also win women's doubles French Open with Martina Hingis (2000) and mixed doubles at Wimbledon with India's Mahesh Bhupathi (2005). On Serena Williams, Mary said the American star is an "incredible competitor." "I was so impressed with her in Singapore tournament. I was commentating and watching her from nearby stand. It was like such a deep burning desire that she had to win every point. I have never seen that trait in any player that I ever watched," she added. Serena is returning to action after giving birth to a baby girl.