Cape Town - Garbine Muguruza has backed Serena Williams to resume her role as one of tennis' leading lights when she returns to the game next year.
Williams gave birth to a baby girl earlier this month, yet she has already set her sights on getting back on court at January's Australian Open.
Despite the 23-time Grand Slam champion taking time away from the game, world No 1 Muguruza expects the American to pick up where she left off.
"I think she will return to competition and she will be as dangerous as she has always been," Muguruza told EFE.
"It is incredible that after being a mother and the best (player in the world), she still has the will and the hunger to return to competition."
Despite her elimination in the last 16 at the US Open, Muguruza has still been able to move to number one in the world rankings - mainly thanks her to victory at Wimbledon.
It's the first time that the 23-year-old has occupied top spot, yet she realises the quality and quantity of players now breathing down her neck.
"I slept peacefully when I achieved it, but at the same time I am aware of the burden I am shouldering," added the Spaniard.
"On one hand, what an achievement. But there is still a lot of work to do and it will be difficult."