Coach of Eight Years Reveals How Serena Williams Flipped the Script on His Decision Serena Williams' ex-coach, Patrick Mouratoglou shares an interesting tidbit about what kept their partnership going

Patrick Mouratoglou ’s coaching journey with Serena Williams began unexpectedly in 2012. After a shock first-round French Open loss, Serena only wanted a place to practice in Paris. Mouratoglou arranged it, and after 45 minutes on court, she said, “Talk to me.” That moment sparked a decade-long partnership. Seeing her as a “blank canvas,” he rebuilt her confidence and the “culture of victory” that defined her. Together, they won 10 Grand Slams and Olympic gold, forging what Mouratoglou called “a special bond from the start.” And when times got tough? Well, it was the WTA champ that saved the day!

In an exclusive with EssentiallySports, the Coach reflected on life with his greatest student, Serena Williams. Their partnership faced challenges after Serena’s daughter Olympia was born in S