Serena Williams' first singles match in 12 months was dramatic and entertaining. Unfortunately for her fans, it ultimately ended in disappointment on Wimbledon's famous Center Court against Harmony Tan.
The first set was a tight battle that could have gone either way. Williams had opportunities she could not take, and her French opponent capitalized on that to take the opening set 7-5.
There were shades of Williams at her vintage best in the second set. She overwhelmed Tan with her blistering power from the baseline to claim it 6-1. Most expected the seven-time Wimbledon champion to win the match from that position.
However, Williams' lack of match practice became clear in the deciding set. In addition to missing some routine shots, the 40-year-old's movement around the court also began to decline. She ran out of steam and lost the match 5-7, 6-1, 5-7.
Despite losing a tight match, Williams was in mostly good spirits in her press conference after the match. The American felt she did pretty well in her first contest in 12 months, although she admitted to struggling physically in the last few points.
"It was definitely a very long battle and fight and it's definitely better than last year. That's a start. I think physically I did pretty good. I think the last couple of points I was really suffering there."
A champion like Williams will always want to win every tournament she competes in. However, the 23-time Grand Slam champion gave a realistic appraisal in her remarks. Being at her best after so long out with an injury was never realistic.
Williams was also asked whether she is likely to play at the US Open, but she refused to give a clear answer. The tennis legend does not know what her future holds so early into her comeback.
"That's a question I can't answer. I don't know. Who knows? Who knows where I'll pop up?"