While sister Venus may be out with an injury, Serena Williams is quickly rising back to the top. Forced to take an 11-month leave after hurting her foot, the 13-time Grand Slam winner played a strong match against Alona Bondarenko Tuesday in Toronto. We caught up with the legendary tennis star to get an insider’s look into her recovery, her match against Martina Hingis, and her journey back to number one.
You’ve had an unlucky run of injuries recently, how is the body feeling now?
Everything feels a lot better. I got a good report from the doctor who says I can play with confidence. That’s a great feeling and hopefully I’ll be able to feel better now. I plan on being there (the Rogers Cup) and just want to be there and do well.
Are you confident about being fit for the US Open?
With me playing Toronto and Cincinatti, that’s more than I usually play. That’ll definitely propel me to be fit going into the Open, and that’s going to help me.
Do you think much about retaining the world number one ranking?
My goals are to do well right now at the Rogers Cup and other Grand Slams. If that means I get back to number one, that’d be great, a bonus.
Will we be surprised by what you wear in Toronto?
I don’t even know what I’ll be wearing yet. I’m keeping even me on my toes.
What was it like playing with Martina Hingis?
She’s a great player and volleyer. It was fun playing her and playing well. She’s just a cool person.
How do you like competing in Canada and how does it compare to some other large competitions you’ve played in?
I like competing in Canada and especially Toronto. I’ve done well there. It feels like a lifetime ago since I’ve competed there.
Rogers Cup continues on at the Rexall Centre at York University until Aug. 14.
