Venus returns to WTA top 20

Originally published on: 25/02/13 00:00

Williams, who has not played since the Australian Open after struggling with a back problem, will play Croatia’s Mirjana Lucic-Baroni in the first round at the Brasil Tennis Cup in Florianopolis.

The seven-time Grand Slam champion, who was diagnosed with Sjogren’s syndrome in September 2011, leapfrogged Julia Goerges to move inside the WTA top 20 for the first time since May 2011.

"It’s beautiful here in Florianopolis, I’ve heard so many wonderful things about here,” Williams said. “It was exciting to see who I play in the first round – Mirjana Lucic – I haven’t played her in a very, very long time; many, many years so I am looking forward to that.

“I’m going to prepare and do my best to be ready and I am looking forward to meeting the Brazilian fans and experiencing Brazil.”

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By Tim Farthing

About the Author / Tim Farthing

Tim Farthing, Tennishead Editorial Director & Owner, has been a huge tennis fan his whole life. He's a tennis journalist and entrepreneur as well as playing tennis to a national standard. He also helps manage his local club and volunteers for his local tennis organisation. He's a specialist in content about the administration of professional tennis and tennis coaching for all levels.