July 05, 2010

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World No.1 Serena Williams continued to add to her remarkable legacy on Saturday at the All-England Club, defeating first time Slam finalist Vera Zvonareva 6-3, 6-2 in the ladies singles final to capture her fourth Wimbledon crown and 13th Grand Slam title.

With the win, Williams ties Billie Jean King for the fourth most Wimbledon titles collected in the Open Era. The 28-year-old American also passes King into sixth on the all-time list for the most Majors won in the Open Era (Margaret Court 24, Steffi Graf 22, Helen Wills Moody 19, Martina Navratilova and Chris Evert 18 each).

"This one's very special," Williams said in the on-court interview with Sue Barker. "I want to congratulate Vera. She played amazing here. She's been through so much in the last year. Everyone should give her a round of applause... she defines what a champion and never giving up means."

Williams' serving throughout the tournament was the centerpiece of her success. She was out-acing even the best men's players in the world and she smashed the women's tournament ace record of 72, finishing with 89 after the final.

"I've honestly never served this well," Williams added. "Whenever I come on this grass, on this amazing Centre Court, I start serving well. I want to keep it up."

This was Serena’s sixth career Wimbledon final and third straight appearance in the championship match. Last year she beat her sister Venus to raise the trophy for a third time. Saturday’s victory is also Williams’ second Grand Slam title of 2010 after claiming top honours at the Australian Open in January.

**With files from www.wtatour.com**