23-time Grand Slam champion Serena Williams admitted there were periods when she was doubting whether she would be able to come back. 12 months ago at Wimbledon, Williams slipped on the grass and injured her ankle. Williams retired her first match to Aliaksandra Sasnovich and spent the next 12 months sidelined.
This Tuesday, Williams made her return to competitive action in Eastbourne as she and Ons Jabeur defeated Marie Bouzkova and Sara Sorribes Tormo 2-6 6-3 13-11. “Did I ever doubt I would return? Absolutely, for sure.
I would be dishonest if I said it wasn’t and now my body feels great,” Williams said, per Tennishead. “I definitely felt good out there and I was talking with Ons in the first set saying ‘we’re not playing bad’ because they were just playing really good in that first set.
But obviously winning, getting more balls and playing a little bit more made us feel a lot better. It definitely felt reassuring. It has been clicking in practise and now it seems like it is clicking. It is doubles but it still means a lot to both of us to be in it”.
Williams set for Wimbledon
Last week, Williams revealed her plans to compete at Wimbledon. Williams, who is now ranked outside the top-1000, was awarded a main draw wildcard into Wimbledon. Even though Williams will be playing her first singles tournament in 12 months, many feel that the American could be dangerous at The All England Club.
Williams is one of the most accomplished players in tennis history and Wimbledon has always been a great place for her. At Wimbledon, Williams is a seven-time champion and some believe that The All England Club is the toughest place to face the American.
The fact that Williams likely won’t feel any pressure to do well could potentially help her make a strong run at Wimbledon.
