Defiant Williams vows to return

Venus Williams gave a bold performance on the opening day of Wimbledon but unfortunately for the American it came in the press conference room rather than on court.

Five-time Wimbledon champion Williams, who heads sister Serena by one title, lost in the opening round of her favourite grand slam yesterday for the first time since 1997, her debut year at the Championships.

The 32-year-old was bundled out in straight sets by Russian Elena Vesnina, who claimed a fine 6-1 6-3 success on Court Two.