London 2012 Olympics: Serena Williams regards Olympic golds as highlight

By Mark Staniforth
Published on 25/07/2012 03:31

Serena Williams is relishing the opportunity to return so soon to the scene of her Wimbledon triumph and says the 
Olympic doubles gold medals she won in 2000 and 2008 represent the most enjoyable 
moments of her tennis career.

Williams jetted into London with the rest of the US Olympic tennis team including sister Venus, Andy Roddick and John Isner, eager to return to the grass where she claimed her fifth All England Club singles title less than three weeks ago.

Williams said: “I think growing up as tennis players we always dream of winning Grand Slams and doing well at tournaments like Wimbledon.

“But to have the opportunity to win a gold medal and be mentioned among the greatest athletes is an honour. For me of every tournament I’ve won, I enjoy my gold medal probably the most.

“It’s exciting to be back so soon. Usually we have to wait 12 months to walk back on Centre Court and feel that moment that we felt, so I’m going to be really excited to have that quick turnaround and get back on the grass where I love to play.”

Despite ongoing health concerns, sister Venus is also aiming to build on her phenomenal Olympic record, which includes a singles triumph in 2000 along with the two doubles title with her sister.

Venus Williams said: “When you’re at tournaments and they announce your name and it has ‘Olympian’ and ‘gold medallist’ behind you, it’s such a thrill and not something you ever get over.

“It is an event that brings the whole world together and it is great to be a part of that movement. I think we find out how proud we are of where we come from when these weeks come around.”