It suddenly seems that the Serena Williams era might be at an end. It is too early to write off one of the greatest of all time, but the foot injury that forced the 13-time Slam winner out of action last year is serious enough to suggest that a player who will be 30 at the season's end is a diminishing force. This year's slams are wide open and anyone looking to place a tennis bet should remember that.
Australian Open - Sam Stosur
Serena has won five of the last eight Australian Opens, so her absence will peak the interest of her rivals. Justine Henin and Venus Williams are unlikely to be at their best after their own injury problems, whilst Kim Clijsters could take a while to get going after the end of year break.
This leaves the path open for someone to claim a maiden major title and home favourite Sam Stosur can go all the way after making massive strides in 2010.
French Open – Justine Henin
If Henin can prove her fitness after undergoing elbow surgery last year, she should be the player to beat in Paris. The Belgian is a four-time winner at Roland Garros and her skill on subtlety on clay will neutralise the power of the younger guard who will have more of a say at the other slams.
Wimbledon – Kim Clijsters
If Serena wins anywhere on her comeback, it will be at Wimbledon. She has a great track record of progressing at tournaments with poor preparation, but I expect someone to her catch her cold in the early stages at SW19. Kim Clijsters will be desperate to prove she can away from Flushing Meadows and should be in peak form by the summer.
US Open – Caroline Wozniacki
The world number one is already under pressure to justify her top ranking with a major title and expectations will increase the longer her trophy cabinet remains bereft of a major title. She was imperious form at Flushing Meadows last year and can go all the way if she keeps things together mentally.
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