Rio de Janeiro, Aug 5: Serena Williams has praised tennis star Sania Mirza and said the Indian doubles specialist is capable of winning an Olympic medal at Rio Olympics 2016.
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As per Serena, who has won four Olympic golds, feels if Mirza finds her touch she could make it to the podium at Rio Games.
The women's doubles begins on Sauturday (Aug 6) and mixed doubles will start on August 10.
Sania, at present, is the highest-ranked woman doubles player and thus nation hopes an Olympic medal from her.
"She's a great doubles player who knows how to win Grand Slam titles. She's had a wonderful career as a singles player too," said Serena.
According to the women's tennis legend from the USA, the Hyderabad star would be a formidable challenger at Rio even if she would go into the doubles competition with new partners.
(Sania Mirza arrives at Rio after a long flight)
"Sania can be with any partner and she will do a wonderful job," said Serena.
Mirza will partner Prarthana Thombare in the women's doubles and will play with Rohan Bopanna in the mixed doubles.
"It has been a long flight, but one is always excited about Olympics and playing for India," said Sania after arriving at Olympic Games Village in Rio.
"I am sure all the pairs are fighting fit. The Bryan brothers have pulled out, but am sure the Americans have enough players to put up a strong team."
Sania was received at the Village by the Chef de Mission, Rakesh Gupta and presented with the Olympic Souvenir being given to all athletes.
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