Serena can match Steffi’s grand slam record, says Martina

Martina Navratilova has backed Serena Williams to go on and match Steffi Graf’s Open era record of 22 grand slam singles titles.

Williams’ 6-3 6-3 win over Caroline Wozniacki in the US Open final took her level with Navratilova and Chris Evert on 18.

The figure had been a big target for the American and she admitted it had weighed on her mind as she suffered early exits at the Australian Open, French Open and Wimbledon. Navratilova and Evert joined Williams on court at Flushing Meadows to present her with a commemorative Tiffany bracelet marking the occasion.