Australian Open 2024: Linda Noskova reveals tennis icon amid dream run - ‘I was a big fan’

As Linda Noskova enjoys a dream run at the Australian Open in Melbourne, the 19-year-old has revealed her favourite tennis players growing up, following her giant-killing of world No. 1 Iga Swiatek earlier in the tournament. Noskova named 23-time Grand Slam champion Serena Williams as one of her heroes because of “the way she way she carries herself”, as well as previous opponent Elina Svitolina.

Linda Noskova has named tennis legend Serena Williams as her favourite player growing up after the 19-year-old continued her dream run at the Australian Open in Melbourne.

The Czech knocked out world No. 1 Iga Swiatek in the third round and after coming through against an injury-stricken Elina Svitolina, will now take on Dayana Yastremska in the quarter-finals.

Following the giant-killing of Swiatek in her first-ever third-round match at a Grand Slam, Noskova opened up on the players she looked up to when she was younger.

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One of those is former 23-time Grand Slam champion Williams.

“I didn't really watch tennis as much as my parents or the people that were around it a little more,” Noskova admitted in a press conference.

“But I think when I kind of got into it, I was a big fan of Serena. I always am and always probably will be.

“I like her style a lot and the way she carries herself and the person that she is. She's definitely on top of my charts.”

Noskova completes stunning comeback victory over Swiatek - Australian Open highlights

Video credit: TNT Sports

Noskova, despite her tender age, actually beat Serena and sister Venus Williams at the 2022 US Open in the first round of the women's doubles, alongside Lucie Hradecka.

When asked if that - despite the win over Swiatek - is still her favourite moment of her career, the Czech said: "I don't think that anything will probably ever top the doubles."

Noskova also described her fourth-round opponent Svitolina as an inspiration growing up.

The Ukrainian was forced to retire from the pair's match on Monday due to a back problem, as Noskova advanced after just three games played in the first set.

She claimed to be a fan of Svitolina’s playing style, and despite qualifying for the quarter-finals, was disappointed in how the match against the 29-year-old played out.

“I would actually say that Elina might have been one of them as well,” the teenager revealed. “I like her style a lot.

“She can change the direction or the rhythm of the game really good, so I was always really appreciative of such a player that can go on the net or can do slice.

“I was counting on this a little for today. Unfortunately, we didn't really get to know each other on court, but maybe next time when we will play each other.”

'So tough to watch' - Heartbroken Svitolina retires injured against Noskova

Video credit: TNT Sports

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