Venus peaking at just the right time

LONDON, June 26 (Reuters) Venus Williams expects to be at the peak of her powers when she starts the defence of her Wimbledon title tomorrow.

The 26-year-old plays fellow American Bethanie Mattek in the first round tomorrow, weather permitting, ''At this point, I should be at the height of my strength and experience, and know-how,'' said the older Williams sister.

''That's the positivity I'm taking out of it. Each and every match brings me closer to the level that I want to get to.'' The start of Williams's year was blighted by elbow and arm injuries after a first round defeat at the Australian Open.

But the American reached the quarter-finals of the French Open earlier this month and cannot wait to get stuck into the grasscourt grand slam.

She has reached the Wimbledon final in five of the last six years, winning the title three times.

''It seems like my game goes to another level here. I love it. I always love to bring home the title. I think a lot of times, by the time this tournament comes around, I've got a few kinks out of my game.

''I've had half a year to play, or in this case at least some tournaments in the clay court season. I always come into the tournament very positive. That's really crucial.

''Am I more relaxed this year? It seems like it. But once that first round comes around, obviously that will be the true test of really how I feel. So far I feel very good.'' REUTERS PDS RK2010