(Photo: AP Photo/Rob Griffith, File)

She’s almost back. Serena Williams, that is, and the world of women’s tennis is trembling with excitement and a dollop of fear. Her opponents undoubtedly wondering if the future tennis hall of fame player’s powerful game has recovered since Williams had a variety of health ailments.

These issues include cutting her foot on glass, which lead to two surgical procedures, and she was also treated for a blood clot in a lung.

Next week Williams, 29, who will defend her title at Wimbledon later this month, will prepare for the London tournament at a grass-court tournament in Eastbourne, England. She has won Wimbledon four times.

She has not played a match that matters since last July, when she won her 13th Grand Slam title at the All England Club, the official site of the Wimbledon Championships.

In a statement released by her agent, Williams said, "I am so excited to be healthy enough to compete again. “These past 12 months have been extremely tough and character building. I have so much to be grateful for. I'm thankful to my family, friends and fans for all of their support. Serena's back!"

Venus Williams will also be back on the tennis court soon. She has won seven Grand Slam singles titles, and was out of action with a hip injury that occurred last January at the Australian Open. Her agent has said it is likely that she will play at Eastbourne and Wimbledon, as well.

The formidable William sisters have won nine of the last 11 Wimbledon championships, and faced one another four times in a final.

If they are back, then women’s tennis better get ready to rumble.