ABSENT SERENA STILL A WINNER

EVEN when she is not here, mum-to-be Serena Williams is beating the other women.

In an ESPN poll of 146 of the world’s top athletes Williams came first, securing 43 per cent of the votes.

Speaking of Williams, John McEnroe just couldn’t resist another dig when asked on Radio 5 Live what his ranking would be in the women’s game.

McEnroe was forced to eventually apologise after sparking a row with seven-time SW19 champion Serena (above) by claiming she would be ranked “like 700 in the world” if she played on the men’s circuit.

When asked how he would fare, McEnroe said: “Oh I’d probably be in the top 500 at least.

“I think I could make that.

“The women only play best of three so I’d have an advantage there.

“But thank you for asking!”