Monica Seles aims for comeback in 2006
(Reuters)
Updated: 2005-12-14 11:03

POWER CRAZE

"The ball is being hit harder and harder, and the girls are much more complete players than they used to be. Physically stronger," she said.

Seles helped launch the power craze in women's tennis, with her ferocious hitting off both wings.

"I think I probably was one of the earliest to start it," she said. "I brought in power with two hands from both sides.

"I was one of a few players that brought on this power game and they've taken it to a new level.

"Then the grunting part, everybody is now doing it. It's like normal now. Seeing women play such aggressive tennis is really great."

Seles said she would gauge not only her skills on the court but her chances of sustaining her level of play.

"You want to be able to keep up with the girls because they are playing amazing tennis now," she said.

"To play mediocre tennis, I would not want to go back."

Seles, who won the Australian Open four times, the French Open three times and the U.S. Open twice, said she was not contemplating a full-time return and would only play selectively if she decided to come back.

Which grand slam might she aim for?

"I love the Australian and the U.S. Open. Those are my two favourites," said Seles.

"I'd take either one."