Serena Williams will this week return to tennis for first time since giving birthMICHAEL DODGE/GETTY IMAGES Serena Williams hasn't played since winning the Australian Open in January. Tennis champion Serena Williams will return to the court in Abu Dhabi this week after nearly a year away from the sport. She will play world No 7 Jelena Ostapenko in an exhibition match on Thursday, during the Mubadala World Tennis Championship. READ MORE:* Serena Williams uncertain of playing Australian Open* Inside Serena Williams' wedding day* Serena Williams marries in New Orleans* Serena Williams pleads for help with teething baby* Serena Williams has Grease-inspired baby shower"The Mubadala World Tennis Championship has long marked the beginning of the men's global tennis season, and I am excited and honoured to be making my comeback as part of the first women to participate in the event." Williams' appearance will be a boost to the tournament, with Rafael Nadal, Stan Wawrinka and Milos Raonic all pulling out because of injuries.

Source: Stuff December 24, 2017 16:48 UTC