After a year without playing a singles tournament, Serena Williams missed her return to the circuit: at 40, the American was beaten by the French Harmony Tan 7-5, 1-6, 7-6 (10/7 ), Tuesday in the first round of Wimbledon.
Seven-time Major champion on grass and ex-undisputed world number 1, Serena Williams, down to 1,204th in the world, had received an invitation to enter the main draw. The American, not the best physically, gave the best of herself, ending up bowing in the super tie-break.
“I told myself that I was going to win a game or two but no more”
For Harmony Tan, it’s a dream come true. “I am so moved, admitted the Frenchwoman after the match point. Serena is a superstar. I watched her play when I was young. Beating her is amazing. I just want to say wow. »
It was in the mind that Nathalie Tauziat’s pupil undoubtedly made the difference after more than three hours of play. “You know, when I found out I was going to play Serena in the first round, I was scared. I told myself that I was going to win a game or two but no more. She did much better. Here it is in the second round where she will face the Spanish Sorribes Tormo.