The Russian Playboy star set to take on Serena Williams at Wimbledon today
She knocked out Venus Williams four years ago in the first round and later posed for the cover of Playboy
THIS is the woman who managed to knock out one of tennis' finest - Venus Williams - in the first round of Wimbledon four years ago and then went on to pose for the cover of Playboy.
She is now set to take on Venus' sister and defending champion, Serena, today at the Grand Slam.
Elena Vesina is unseeded, and has caused a stir again after reaching the ladies' singles semi-finals for the first time in her 11 tries at Wimbledon.
The 29-year-old has beaten 19th seed Dominika Cibulkova, who was perhaps slightly relieved to be beaten as it meant she would not miss her own wedding, to get this far.
Now she will take on a Wimbledon favourite in one half of the famous Williams sister pairing.
Elena has been successful as a doubles tennis player but this is the first time she has come so far in the singles tournament.
She said: "It was like a dream come true... I was just waiting and waiting for this to happen.
"But of course a semi-final is a big surprise for me."
She surprised the tennis world before when she appeared on the cover Russian edition of Playboy in March 2014.
The number 50 ranked player in the world was pictured emerging from a swimming pool with the magazine saying: "On the court you won't see her like this."
Inside there were more photographs of her in limited clothing.
She said she decided to pose for the magazine as she "wanted to try it" and because "it will be shown in a very beautiful manner".
She has previously discussed if looks are important in tennis and said: "There are a lot of pretty girls in tennis.
"But you also need strength, stamina personality, charm and know how to show yourself.
"You also shouldn't seem to prim a young lady, too good girl.
"A lot of supporters love sportsmen because they 'catch' them with their personality."
After reaching the semi-finals she said: "I think nothing can be better than playing against Serena in a semi-final on Centre Court at Wimbledon, it's special.
"Serena, I'm admiring her. I'm always watching.
"She's No1 in the world. I respect both Serena and Venus.
"What they bring to the sport is just incredible. It will be a big challenge for me, but I hope I can accept this challenge."
Elena thinks this year has been especially good for her due to her self belief and positive thinking.
She touched on the fact she had previously dropped out of the top 100 after having been in the top 30 ranked players in the world.
She said she was happy that is "didn't break" her and she has returned to winning form.
Elena will challenge the returning Wimbledon champion and six-time winner on Centre Court at 1pm today.
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