Venus Williams has targeted a return to the world's top 16 by the French Open.

The former world No 1 enjoyed a successful return after more than four months out with injury by thrashing Israeli top seed Shahar Peer 6-1, 6-1 to win the Memphis International on Saturday. The American slipped down the rankings to 71 after playing just one tournament after Wimbledon of last year, because of wrist and knee injuries.

Her 34th career title is projected to lift her ranking from its present level of 54 to inside the top 40 and the American has already plotted out a return to the elite.

"My goal is definitely to be in the top 16 by the French (starting in May)," she said.

"I have three or four more tournaments before that so I think it's pretty reachable. I am entered in Miami, Charleston, Warsaw, Istanbul and the French Open.

"I know my schedule pretty much up to Wimbledon. If I am healthy, I'll be there."

Williams said she was not really surprised at her victory, even though she had not played competitively since October.

(China Daily via Agencies February 26, 2007)