The Mercedes boss’ comments were shared on Instagram before they were picked up on by Williams. Commenting on Hamilton, the 22-time Grand Slam champion wrote: “He should have had 9 already. But…lemme be quiet.”

Serena Williams believes Lewis Hamilton should have nine world titles. (Image: Getty)

It is not exactly clear which seasons Williams was referring to where Hamilton could have snatched another two world championship titles but the greatest British driver of all time has been denied the title on the final day of the season on no fewer than three occasions.

By far the most controversial was at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix in 2021 when Hamilton appeared to be on course for his fifth straight title before a late safety car incident allowed Verstappen to close the gap on his rival after race officials permitted the Dutchman to overtake backmarkers.

Verstappen had jumped into the pits just before the safety car lap to put on fresh tyres and with a significant grip advantage he was able to overtake Hamilton on the final lap to land his first world title with Red Bull.

Lewis Hamilton has won a joint-record seven F1 world championships. (Image: Getty)

Respect appears to be mutual between Hamilton and Williams, with the Mercedes star taking to social media to pay tribute to the American after she retired from tennis in 2022.

On hearing her announcement, Hamilton wrote on Instagram: “Taking a moment before the race today to show my appreciation and gratitude to the greatest of all time,@serenawilliams. We will never see another Serena. She’s one of a kind. She came through like a wrecking ball and has been so spectacular to witness.

“I remember watching her and Venus at their first games with my dad on TV. Seeing such talented women dominating a field where no one looked like them gave me hope. They made me believe that superheroes are real, and they can look me and my family.”