(CNN)---Serena Williams has responded to John McEnroe's claims that she would struggle on the men's tennis circuit by telling her fellow American to "keep me out of your statements that are not factually based."
Seven-time grand slam winner McEnroe reopened an age-old debate by telling US radio network NPR that Williams would "be like 700 in the world" if she played on the men's Tour.
Reacting to McEnroe's comments, the 35-year-old tweeted:
Dear John, I adore and respect you but please please keep me out of your statements that are not factually based.
— Serena Williams (@serenawilliams) June 26, 2017
I've never played anyone ranked "there" nor do I have time. Respect me and my privacy as I'm trying to have a baby. Good day sir
— Serena Williams (@serenawilliams) June 26, 2017