The discussion about Serena Williams being replaced after her pregnancy-related time-out continues. Wimbledon could lead the way.
There is no doubt that Williams will be in the main field, thanks to the Protected Ranking. This, however, has no effect on a possible settlement – a topic that came up in recent weeks after Williams had already met with Sister Venus early in Indian Wells and with Naomi Osaka in round one in Miami.
At a press conference at the All England Club there had been mixed signals regarding the setting of Serena, the British Guardian reports. “Wimbledon’s rules state that “the WTA ranking shall be applied unless, in the opinion of the Committee, a change is necessary to achieve a balanced tableau”. All England Club CEO Richard Lewis pointed out that there had been examples of players being promoted – but only if they were already in the top 32. It is unlikely that the committee would kick a player out of the top 32 to give Williams a place.
After a hastily made call to Steve Simon, the head of the WTA, however, one rowed back – and promised Williams a seat. A spokeswoman: “It is appropriate to say that the committee has the opportunity to bet a player independently of her ranking. This discussion will be held on June 26th, when a meeting about the settlement will take place.”
There will certainly not be one thing in Wimbledon 2018 yet: the Shot Clock. You want to watch them at other tournaments first. Wimbledon will certainly not take part in on-court coaching. “You’re on your own in tennis,” the statement says. As there must be agreement between the majors, no Grand Slam tournament will have on-court coaching.