Wigan Hitter Keeps Serena Williams Comeback Secret for Weeks

When David Quayle's phone rang while visiting his parents in May, he had no idea he was about to guard one of tennis's biggest secrets.

The 26-year-old hitting partner from Wigan was invited to Florida to help prepare Serena Williams for her comeback to professional tennis. After "pacing around the house in excitement," Quayle realized he couldn't tell anyone where he was going.

"There was this excitement that she was going to play Queen's, but no-one knew yet," Quayle told BBC Sport. "It was quite exciting to be in on this little secret that you knew when the tennis world hears it would be huge news."

Quayle spent just over a week training with the 23-time Grand Slam champion on a hard court at one of Williams' Florida properties. He stayed nearby with Jarmere Jenkins, who will now coach the 44-year-old alongside Grand Slam doubles champion Rennae Stubbs.

The two actually had history. Quayle spent nearly a month training with Williams at the Mouratoglou Academy in France before the 2018 French Open. When Jenkins asked for proof, Quayle sent photos, and Williams remembered him "a little bit."

Despite being an established hitting partner who has worked with Novak Djokovic and Carlos Alcaraz at Wimbledon, Quayle admits his first sessions with Williams made him nervous. "It's a funny thing to see someone that you have watched their serve on TV for so many years, and then all of a sudden that serve is coming at you," he explained.

The practices paid off. Williams hasn't lost her edge, according to Quayle, who calls her "the ultimate professional."

Why This Inspires

Quayle's story shows how dedication and professionalism can create opportunities to work alongside your heroes. He went from watching Williams on television to becoming a trusted part of her comeback team, all while keeping one of tennis's biggest secrets.

The environment around Williams impressed him just as much as her tennis. "She's so welcoming. We're always cracking jokes and we've got a similar sense of humor," he said. Williams encourages him to share observations about her training, making him feel like a valued team member.

This week, Quayle will be in Williams' support box at Queen's as she partners with Victoria Mboko in doubles. He's already been asked to travel to Berlin for the second tournament of her comeback.

Quayle doesn't yet know if Williams will play Wimbledon, but he's relieved the secret is finally out and he can be honest with friends about his movements.