Serena’s still bent on record

SERENA Williams “absolutely” intends to surpass Margaret Court’s record of 24 Grand Slam titles and believes being a new mother can help her achieve that goal.

The 36-year-old, who gave birth to her first daughter in September, decided to pull out of the Australian Open following concerns over her ability to make an impact in Melbourne.

Williams won the last of her 23 Grand Slams in Australia last year, defeating her sister Venus in the final when, it would later emerge, she was in the early stages of pregnancy.

Despite admitting she was “not where I personally want to be” in announcing her withdrawal from the Australian Open, Williams told Vogue she was determined to return to a competitive level sooner rather than later. She also revealed she suffered a health scare after giving birth – small blood clots in her lungs.

“I absolutely want more Grand Slams,” she said.

“I have my sights on 25.”