Test good for Williams

Serena Williams believes her Center Court scare against China's Zheng Jie was the perfect preparation for the sterner tests that lie ahead in the second week of Wimbledon.

The sixth-seeded American would have preferred a routine straight-sets win, but she is convinced the experience of coming back from the brink will make her even more battle-hardened in the remaining four matches that stand between her and a fifth Wimbledon title.

"It definitely helps me to realize that's it's not going to be easy going forward. I just have to stay focused," the former world No 1 said.

"Everyone's trying to win, but I can win matches like this. Not that I've ever doubted that, but it's always good to have that reconfirmation."

Surviving a tough examination against Zheng was also important for Serena's morale as she tries to erase the memories of a confidence-denting shock three-set defeat against France's Virginie Razzano in the French Open first round last month.

"I was definitely way more calm than I was when I lost in my last long match," Serena said. "With any loss, you have to really get that feeling of confidence back. You know, it's not easy, especially when you're doing so well, to lose and then to try to come back.

"It's all mental. I'm just trying to do the best that I can do.

"I thought, 'Serena, just relax and be calm'. I felt good. I never felt like I was going to lose this match."

Agence France-Presse

(China Daily 07/02/2012 page24)