Intro:

The world's top women players attended the now-traditional pre-Wimbledon party in central London on Thursday (June 21).

Script:

A few days before they don the traditional whites at the All English Lawn Tennis Club, the world's elite female tennis players showcased their most glamorous outfits at Sir Richard Branson's annual pre-Wimbledon party.

Maria Sharapova recently completed a career slam by winning the French Open, but the 2004 Wimbledon champion said in sport there's little time to dwell on success:

SOUNDBITE (English): Maria Sharapova:

"Yeah such a memorable moment (winning the French Open) in my career. But as always in tennis, there is always something new around the corner and, you know, it is Wimbledon, just two weeks after the finals of the French Open. So, you enjoy that moment of victory for a few days and then you kind of click you mindset to something new, a new challenge. And for me, that transition from clay to grass is always a fun one. I always love it. The first few days of practice are always fun and challenging. But I always have really nice memories. So I always look forward to Wimbledon starting."

Meanwhile five time Wimbledon winner Venus Williams admits this year her focus lies elsewhere.

SOUNDBITE (English): Venus Williams:

"The (Olympic) Games was the most important goal for me this year. I mean, I have fought hard enough get get close enough to qualify and be considered for the (US) team. So it will be good for me to be here, play singles, play doubles. And prep for the Games. I mean, I love Wimbledon so much, I am still trying to achieve the ultimate dream."

With the Championship getting underway on Monday (25th June), the players no doubt passed on the champagne and various cocktails available, and instead enjoyed the company of their peers before they all go head-to-head for tennis' most prestigious major.