Serena Williams is in Eastbourne preparing for her first tournament appearance in nearly a year, and she elected to train with a fellow American player to get ready for the event.
Williams' legendary career has spanned over decades, and she has been the most successful player of her generation. Therefore, her absence from tennis for nearly 12 months was a blow to the sport.
Her spell on the sidelines was caused by an injury sustained at last year's Wimbledon. She slipped on the grass in her opening round match and was in tears as she left the court after retiring with a leg injury.
Williams' return to the singles court will take place at Wimbledon. Before that, she hopes to build momentum and confidence by playing doubles alongside the stylish Ons Jabeur at the Eastbourne International.
It is unknown how high the 40-year-old's level will be upon her return. After so long out, her preparation to give herself the best possible chance becomes even more important, which explains why Williams decided to hit with Frances Tiafoe.
Tiafoe, currently the No. 27 ranked player on the ATP Tour, is also participating in the Eastbourne International. The young American will play against Alexander Bublik in the tournament's first round.
The video below shows a part of Williams' and Tiafoe's practice. Williams hits three serves on the AD side of the court. She directs her first serve into Tiafoe's backhand, which he manages to get back into play.
The 23-time major champion also gets her following serve into play, aimed at Tiafoe's forehand. Williams hits her final serve in the clip wide after trying to go to Tiafoe's forehand again.
The six-time US Open champion was not serving at full speed in the video. She was trying to get into a rhythm. If Williams finds her best level for Wimbledon after so long out, it would be an incredible achievement.
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