Written by BBC 2012-07-07 19:21:00 Read 785 Times

Serena Williams overcame a resurgent Agnieszka Radwanska to clinch a hard-fought 6-1 5-7 6-2 victory and earn her fifth Wimbledon singles title.

The American, a winner in 2002, 2003, 2009 and 2010, had eased through the opener with Radwanska rarely threatening to pierce her defences.

But the Pole regrouped as rain delayed the second set, and clawed back a break before swooping late to win the second.

Williams broke twice in the decider to finally kill off Radwanska's comeback.

It is the 30-year-old's 14th Grand Slam title and her first since spending almost a year out of action between summer 2010 and 2011 with a leg injury and subsequent pulmonary embolism.

Such an absorbing finish seemed highly unlikely as Williams demolished Radwanska in the opening set, raising the fear that her opponent was still struggling with a respiratory illness that forced her to call off a news conference on Friday.

The world number three seemed to lack the energy necessary to realise her hopes of countering Williams's clubbing baseline power with guile and touch.

A brief rain shower seemed to have opposite effects on the pair however, as Radwanska emerged revitalised and Williams's forehand grew increasingly erratic.

Written By Mike HensonBBC Sport at Wimbledon

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