Tennis superstar, Serena Williams, has taken up the boxing gloves for lessons from former world heavyweight champion, Mike Tyson, so as to better prepare for the Australian Open in January.

Reports revealed that the idea was an initiative of her Coach, Patrick Mouratoglou who has taken his charges for a training camp with a difference.

"I wanted to renew with the tradition of organising a team-building camp to prepare for the Australian Open," he said.

Wouldn’t want to get in the ring with this GOAT @serenawilliams ???? pic.twitter.com/pn8mrlCuOR

— Mike Tyson (@MikeTyson) December 19, 2019

"Along with Serena, we brought in a new, crazy-talented generation of players, and even some DJs and fitness gurus."

Twenty-three time Grand Slam singles champion Williams, 15-year-old Gauff and 6ft 7in American Christopher Eubanks are among those being put through their paces in Boca Raton, Florida.

Williams, 38, got the chance to box with former heavyweight champion Tyson, while the group have had choreographed dance lessons and a visit from French DJ Bob Sinclair.

Former world number one Victoria Azarenka even stopped by to join in the karaoke.