Serena Williams makes history

Serena Williams lay sprawled upon the hallowed Wimbledonturf as the weight of expectation lifted from her shoulders after she won a pulsating final against Angelique Kerber to claim a record-equalling 22nd grand slam title

The world number one had grown weary of being asked about matching Steffi Graf's Open Era mark of major singles crowns after failing to add to her incredible haul of slam wins since her triumph at the All England Club last year.

Williams was beaten by Kerber in the Australian Open final back in January and the historic moment did not arrive Paris, where Garbine Muguruza stunned the iconic American in the French Open final last month.

The 34-year-old was not to be denied on a humid Saturday afternoon at SW19, though, proving she is still a cut above in the women's game by seeing off debutant Wimbledon finalist Kerber 7-5 6-3 to retain her title with a brutal Centre Court assault.

Kerber could have offered no more as she rolled with the punches, but was unable to contain the power of the top seed, who now has seven Wimbledon titles to her name.