“Serena Williams could surprise at Wimbledon, says former coach Macci.”

The return of Serena Williams to the main draw of [Wimbledon](https://apitofinal.pt/modalidades/tenis/draper-vence-em-eastbourne-e-reforca-parceria-com-andy-murray-apos-lesao/) is shaking up the tennis world, with her former coach Rick Macci stating that, although she is not the favorite for the title, the American legend “can beat any opponent.” At 44 years old, Serena is preparing for one of the most surprising comebacks in the recent history of the sport, after nearly two years away from singles competition.

The American tennis player, a record holder in the Open Era with 23 Grand Slam singles titles, played her last singles match at the 2022 US Open. Her last major trophy was won back in 2017 in Australia, yet the Wimbledon organization did not hesitate to grant her a wildcard for the main draw, a clear sign of absolute respect for her status. This month, Serena made her return to the grass at Queen’s Club, playing doubles alongside young Victoria Mboko, winning one match before her partner was forced to withdraw due to injury. Days later, she was eliminated in her opening match in Berlin while playing with Karolina Muchova, but the American does not hide her ambition: in addition to singles, she will reunite with her sister Venus to compete in the women’s doubles tournament at Wimbledon.

The importance of this return goes far beyond mere curiosity: Serena Williams is one of the most iconic figures in world sport and continues to attract crowds, television audiences, and global interest. The presence of the former world number one elevates the status of the tournament, already one of the most prestigious on the calendar, and rekindles fans’ hopes for a historic performance from someone who has lifted the Wimbledon trophy seven times. Her participation also serves as an inspiration for athletes of all ages, demonstrating that passion and competitive spirit know no bounds.

In an exclusive interview with Tennis365, Rick Macci, who coached Serena and Venus Williams during their childhood and adolescence, reacted without surprise to the announcement of Serena’s return: “I wasn’t surprised,” said the coach, recalling that he always believed Serena still had “a lot to give.” Macci explained: “If we look back, she never really closed the door… She had many commitments, became a mother again, but she never lost the competitive bug.” According to the coach, he had predicted four months ago that Serena would not only return to doubles but would also venture into singles: “She is fully dedicated, has been preparing and training. This is not a convenience appearance; it’s because she loves to compete. It’s in her blood.”

Regarding the choice of grass for her return, Macci was emphatic: “Grass is probably her best surface because she can hurt her opponents more easily, and the points are shorter. Moreover, on the other side of the net is Serena Williams, which intimidates anyone.” However, he pointed out that physical recovery between matches is the biggest unknown: “The most complicated thing will be recovery, the physical wear between consecutive matches. But the ability to cause damage and surprise? She can beat any player on the tour because when she feels the pressure, many falter.” He also emphasized that the fact that her children are now older serves as extra motivation, as Serena wants her family to see her compete at the highest level.

The coach, who has also worked with names such as Jennifer Capriati, Maria Sharapova, and Andy Roddick, emphasizes the media impact: “This is must-see television, the ratings will soar. It’s great for tennis, people love a comeback and are very curious.” The question is posed: can the veteran Serena challenge the odds and eliminate top players? The answer will be revealed on the lawns of Wimbledon, where her name once again appears among the contenders to surprise.

With her debut scheduled for next week, the attention of the tennis world has turned once again to Serena Williams. While it is unlikely she will repeat the feat of lifting the title, no one doubts that she could deliver some of the most memorable moments of the 2024 edition. The impact of this return is already being felt off the courts, with ticket sales and viewership soaring, and on the field, she promises to raise the level of challenge for all her opponents. The tennis world is preparing to once again live under the spell of Serena Williams.

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