It means that much

It was the second day of action at Wimbledon and there was some notable news including Jelena Jankovic + Sam Stosur getting ousted in their opening round matches and John Isner + Nicolas Mahut playing their much-anticipated and rematch from last year's Championships, won by Tree.

But the day belonged to Serena Williams.

Not because she looked smashing in her Nike Fall Smash Lawn Dress and warm up cardigan, but because she actually let us in. Granted, it wasn't completely by choice but we got to see how much this moment, this return to Centre Court meant to her after being away for almost a year while dealing with a number of serious health issues. After defeating Aravane Rezai 6-3, 3-6 6-1 in the first round she broke down in tears, covering her face with a towel as she sat courtside.

She was asked about her emotional reaction after this win in her post match presser:

Q. Of all the times you've gotten emotional after a match in your whole career, how would you compare today?

SERENA WILLIAMS: I think my first time, maybe when I won the US Open way back in '99. I think I got a little emotional then, but not really.


So this was probably the most emotional I've gotten after a match, after a win. You know, and to be a first round, I never really get super, super excited. But for me it wasn't about winning the match. It was about being out there. Everyone that has had some troubles, whether it be health, whether it be something else, to realize that you can do it.

You know, you just have faith. If you believe in yourself, you just continue to fight and never give up. I always preach, you know, Never give up, never give up. I finally was in a position that I could have gave up, I couldn't have came here, I could have sat home and said, I've had a fabulous career. I don't have to work extra, extra hard now.

But it just really goes to show if you don't give up, you still have a chance.

Q. What did you prove to yourself today?

SERENA WILLIAMS: Uhm, I don't know what I proved to myself today. Well, I guess I proved that I could, that I could. I think that sums it up: I could. If I could get through that, I could. 

It was pretty startling to see someone who usually conveys toughness and strength become so vulnerable and overcome with emotion. But if her reaction to the win was any indication, it was long, tough road back. And I, for one, am happy to have her back and healthy.

[Photo(s) credit: Getty Images]