• French Open, Day 14: What They Said

What They Said: Serena joins greats, Sharapova praise

ESPN staff
June 8, 2013
Serena Williams now holds three of the four grand slams © AP
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Serena Williams added a second French Open crown to her collection with a 6-4 6-4 victory over champion Maria Sharapova on Saturday, and the world No. 1 admitted her opponent made it tough out on court.

"It was very difficult today. After 11 years [since last win at Roland Garros] and now I have 16 [grand slam titles]," Williams said.

"But I want to come back next year because I adore Paris and I adore the public here. I want to win here again. I spend a lot of time here [in Paris] ... and I think I am becoming a Parisienne."

Williams becomes the fourth player behind Martina Navratilova, Steffi Graf and Chris Evert to win all four grand slams twice, and the American added: "I just feel so good. This was the only one that I haven't won more than one [time] and now I have multiples of every major, singles and doubles. It just feels really good. I'm really, really, really pumped."

Sharapova fought hard in the defence of her title and was gracious in defeat to the dominant player in the game.

"I played a great tournament and came up against a really tough champion today," Sharapova said. "She has been playing so well throughout the whole year, and the whole of last year as well, so I'd like to say congratulations to her.

"This court has brought me so many nice memories, last year was so special for me. So to be back on this stage again for the final is special. Of course I would have loved to win, but I will be back next year trying to win it again."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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