“Let’s just put an end to this myth that women players cannot be friends,” Williams says. “We can!” But traditionally, they haven’t been. Steffi Graf, Monica Seles, Maria Sharapova—champions all, but none noted for her cuddliness on, or off, the court. Roger Federer might have dinner with Stan Wawrinka after a match, but among the women, it’s mostly cold shoulders. “It’s something players cultivate to keep their edge,” explains Mary Joe Fernandez, a former top-ten player who is now the captain of the American Fed Cup team. Having her sister Venus with her on tour may have made Serena Williams even more insular. When your best friend is with you day in and day out, why risk becoming vulnerable to another person? Especially if that person might someday stand between you and a $3 million prize. – from American Vogue
