Serena Williams casts a large shadow over women’s tennis. Many think her dominance in slams over the last decade or so reflects poorly on her rivals and even in her recent long injury absence there is a sense that the seat at the head of table in women’s tennis is only being kept warm for her.

The 13-time slam winner has led the criticism of players who reach the top ranking without winning a major, but Williams’ challenge to regain the mantle that she and so many others think is rightfully hers is not an easy one.
The fact Williams plays such a restricted tour program means she must perform well in the slams and although it is folly to write her off – she fell to 95th in the rankings after injury problems in 2006 – her advancing age means it is not inevitable that she will return to her best. The French Open tournament betting reflects this.
Williams has not played competitively since her 2010 Wimbledon triumph, a long lay-off for any player, not least one who is nearing 30 and plays tournaments so rarely. The seriousness of her injury and illness issues further complicates her return to proper match fitness and those with French Open 2011 free bets may want to look elsewhere.
Williams’ rivals know they cannot win in this situation – critics will deride a prospective new Wimbledon champion as the owner of a hollow victory – and it should be remembered that Kim Clijsters beat a fit and fired-up Williams on her way to winning the US Open in 2009.
It will therefore be good for the sport if Williams does return to the top of her game but the greats can lose their special edge quickly, especially as age and injuries take their toll. If Williams is fit for Wimbledon it will certainly make life interesting for punters.
(Source: Sport24)