Venus Williams lacks energy but heads in right direction

 
Andy Hodgson4 April 2012

The odds are against Venus Williams beating Jelena Jankovic tonight but the American is just grateful to be on court again.

The seven-time Grand Slam champion has slumped to No87 in the world after seven months out because of an autoimmune disease, which left her tired and in pain.

Williams returned to action at the Miami Masters last week when she won three matches before losing to Agnieszka Radwanska.

Yesterday, she defeated qualifier Iveta Benesova of the Czech Republic 6-4, 6-3 on clay in the Family Circle Cup in Charleston, South Carolina to set up a clash with Jankovic.

“This is great for me to be in another match and to be in the second round,” said Williams. “For me it’s just about having energy at this point. I try not to worry about tomorrow. I’m very happy I’m on the right road.”

The 31-year-old took three days off after her exertions in Miami and is sure to be given the runaround tonight against the world No15 from Serbia.

Although Jankovic only holds a 6-5 lead in their head-to-head record she has won all four of their matches on clay. Williams added: “I know it’s a great surface for her and she always gets comfortable on the clay, so I know I have to play well.”

Her sister, Serena, eased into the second round with a 6-3, 6-4 win over Russia’s Elena Vesnina.

The world No11 had 11 aces in her first match on clay in more than a year. She said: “I feel like it really suits my game. I don’t have to go crazy and move my feet so much. I pretty much just go for my serve.”

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