While pundits and fans are concerned 30-year-old Li Na's age could be an issue in coming seasons, Japanese veteran Kimiko Date-Krumm, nation's most successful tennis player, believes the Chinese star is still in her prime.

"I don't think she's old. She's only 30, still 12 years younger than me," said Date-Krumm (pictured), who reached the highest ranking for an Asian player when she hit No 4 in 1995.

"I think it's good timing. Tennis is not only technical and physical. It's more about mentality sometimes. It's a combination.