The long awaited return of Serena Williams will see the former world No.1 in a different limelight, according to one of her rivals on the women’s tour.
Ukraine’s Elina Svitolina talked about the future return of the American ahead of the Dubai Tennis Championships. The 23-year-old has played Williams five times so far in her career, stunning her at the 2016 Rio Olympics. Like many, Svitolina expects her to once again rise to the top of the women’s game, but in a somewhat different format.
“I think maybe not as strong, but different strong. She definitely can come back to the level she was. But I’m sure that she will be very, very strong again. I’m not sure it’s going to be, like, the same,” Svitolina told reporters on Sunday.
Williams started her comeback last weekend during her country’s Fed Cup clash with the Netherlands. Partnering sister Venus in the doubles, the pair suffered a straight sets loss. It was the first match Williams had played since lifting the 2017 Australian Open title. She has been away from tour after giving birth to her first child and encountered some medical issues afterwards. Suffering from a pulmonary embolism.
In the absence of the 23-time grand slam champion, last year saw four different players top the WTA rankings. A position currently held by Denmark’s Caroline Wozniacki. Furthermore, all four of the major tournaments were won by different women. Something Svitolina attributes to a level-playing field forming in the top 10.
“I think the game changed, but also everyone who is top-10 are quite solid and consistent with their game. That’s why it’s, like, now kind of equal. Everyone is, yeah, strong and ready to compete each week,” she explained.
There is a chance that Svitolina and Williams could meet at the start of next month. They are both taking part in a Tie Break Tens event in New York, which will be the first of its kind to be held in America. Also participating is former Wimbledon champion Marion Bartoli, who will officially launch her comeback.
“For sure, she’s a great champion. She has unbelievable experience, unbelievable game for the tennis. Very unique. It’s going to be very interesting to see her coming back. Hopefully, you know, I can play against her. I’m going to have a chance to play actually in New York.” Said Svitolina.
Williams is set to play her first tour event next month at the BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells. The two-week Premier Mandatory tournament will start on March 5th, the same day as the Tie Break Tens event.
