"Super difficult"- Pliskova doesn't believe Serena Williams will be a contender at Wimbledon

The 40-year-old surprised the tennis world last Tuesday when she announced her intention to play the third major of the year at this week’s Rothesay International Eastbourne.

Williams suffered an injury to her right leg at SW19 in 2021 and was forced to retire in the first round but has accepted a wild card to return to the All England Club, where she has won the title on seven occasions. After being absent from the WTA Tour for 12 months, the American will partner up with Ons Jabeur to play doubles at Eastbourne before she once again attempts to draw level with Margaret Court’s tally of 24 grand slams.

Asked about Williams, Pliskova said:

“I don’t know how long it has been since she has played. Has it been a year? It is a long time and she is not the youngest any more so I suppose the body also takes some time to get back into shape. Playing matches at tournaments is still very much different to just practising and from what I understand she is not playing (singles) here, she is just playing doubles."

She further added:

“I think it will be difficult, super difficult for her no matter which kind of player she is because this is a thing where you still need some time. But of course, she is an amazing player, she achieved so much and still a number of players will be super scared to play her. This is her advantage but let’s see the level. I cannot really say.”