London, Jun 7 (AP) Serena Williams will make her return from a year-long injury absence when she contests the Eastbourne tournament next week, signalling she should be fit to defend her Wimbledon title.
A statement from her management released today in the US said she will compete in the tournament on England's south coast which is one of the traditional grasscourt warm-up events for Wimbledon, which begins June 20.
Williams has not played on tour since winning her 13th Grand Slam singles title at the All England Club last July.
"I am so excited to be healthy enough to compete again," Williams said in the statement. "These past 12 months have been extremely tough and character building. I have so much to be grateful for. I'm thankful to my family, friends, and fans for all of their support.