Venus Williams has denied speculation that she is preparing to retire from tennis following her defeat in round one at Wimbledon to Elena Vesnina earlier today.

Five-time winner Williams, who had missed the previous seven months through illness, slumped to a 6-1 6-3 loss to her Russia opponent.

That had led some reports to claim that the 32-year-old would now consider calling time on her career.

However, when asked by reporters if she will be playing at SW19 next year, the American replied: "I'm planning on it. I feel like I'm a great player. I am a great player.

"I'm up for challenges. There's no way I'm just going to give up. That's just not me.

"I'm tough, let me tell you, tough as nails. The only thing I can do is be positive. I love this sport. I feel I can play well and I'm not going to give up on that."

Williams broke through onto the professional circuit in 1997 as a 17-year-old.