Having been off for almost a year now, the Williams sisters made a long-awaited return to action at this week’s tournament in Eastbourne. Unlike previous years, the duo decided to play a preparatory event before heading for Wimbledon, probably wanting to shake off the dust and to better assess their current levels. Although not needed in the past, the lengthy absence required a break in their routine, as having some matches under their belts could help them hit the ultimate form in due time for their favourite Grand Slam. The two have won 9 of the last 11 singles Wimbledon crowns (i.e. has Venus 5 and Serena 4).
Both Serena and Venus were off to a promising start to the week, passing their first tests. Nevertheless, the Americans ride didn’t last, both succumbing relatively early. If Serena lost in her second match to Russian Vera Zvonareva, Venus bowed out a round later, in the quarterfinals, to in-form Daniela Hantuchova.
Although their comeback created media frenzy and the two achieved decent results under the circumstances, I somehow felt they failed to attract the same magnitude as before. I was expecting them to pull something up their sleeves and to make a spectacular entrance as before. Something was missing. There was no controversy, no scandalous fashion choices, no spectacular results, no nothing. It might be a strategy though, enabling them to keep the goodies for Wimbledon. I find it hard to believe that the Williamses, two of the most assiduous coverage seekers of all time, didn’t cook up anything juicy in the time they spent off the courts. With the women's tour becoming duller by the day, I am counting on the them to bring some much needed spice. However, we still need to wait a couple of days before finding the answer to this question.
photo: GETTY IMAGES
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