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Serena Williams wins on return to Wimbledon

(Agencies)
Updated: 2011-06-21 23:00

Serena Williams of the US reacts after defeating Aravane Rezai of France at the Wimbledon tennis championships in London June 21, 2011. [Photo/Agencies]

WIMBLEDON - Returning to Grand Slam tennis after a year out with health problems, Serena Williams picked up where she left off with a winning display on Centre Court at Wimbledon - then burst into tears with emotion.

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Opening play Tuesday on the showcase stage at the All England Club, the four-time champion overcame the gutsy play of Arvane Rezai to beat the French player 6-3, 3-6, 6-1.

Williams fought through a mid-match slump, re-establishing her authority in the third set with her big serve and powerful groundstrokes. She showed why she is still considered a title favorite despite her long layoff after two foot operations and blood clots on her lungs.

After serving her 13th ace to close out the match, Williams buried her face in her towel and sobbed as she sat on her courtside chair. She was still crying as she walked off the court.