• WTA Tour

Serena to make return to action at Eastbourne

ESPN staff
June 7, 2011
Serena Williams has not played competitively since winning at SW19 © Getty Images
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Serena Williams will return to competitive action for the first time in almost a year at Eastbourne next week.

The American has been sidelined ever since cutting her foot on some glass in a restaurant in Germany shortly after winning Wimbledon last year. She has not played since, as two operations on that injury and later treatment to remove a blood clot from her lungs have kept the 29-year-old off the court.

But after returning to practice in April, it seems Williams will use the grass-court tournament on the south coast as much-needed practice ahead of the defence of her crown at the All England Club.

"I am so excited to be healthy enough to compete again," Williams said in a statement. "These past 12 months have been extremely tough and character-building.

"I have so much to be grateful for. I'm thankful to my family, friends and fans for all of their support. Serena's back!"

Williams' sister, Venus, is also on course to appear at both Eastbourne and Wimbledon, her agent confirmed last month.

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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