A ‘fairytale’ story has become an overused narrative in the sporting world. However, when talking about Carla Suarez Navarro’s comeback, it is truly the stuff of dreams.

“It’s been quite a ride, Wimbledon! Ready for a nice farewell,” tweeted the Spaniard earlier this week. Just last September, the 32-year-old was diagnosed with Hodgkin Lymphoma, threatening her life and on a less severe level, halting plans to call it a day on court.

The tennis world let out a huge collective sigh of relief in April when the former world No.6 announced she was free of cancer and now Suarez Navarro is intent on waving goodbye to Wimbledon and competitive tennis on her own terms.

“It feels so special for me. Last year we couldn’t play here. I’m a little bit sad, here to play for the last time, it’s one of the most beautiful tournaments and places where we can play,” the Spaniard told Wimbledon.com.

“I have a really special match in my first round, so I’ll try and enjoy it.”

That blockbuster contest is with world No.1 Ashleigh Barty, which is appropriately hailing Suarez Navarro’s return by opening proceedings on Centre Court on Tuesday afternoon.

“I know the atmosphere there is normally amazing. I really respect Ash, obviously she’s No.1 now, she’s one of the best, she really understands the game. It’s going to be special for sure,” added Suarez Navarro.

“I know I have to be 100 per cent. It’s the first time we’ve played each other, first tournament this year on grass. I know what I have to do, but the most important thing is to enjoy the moment.”

Ever since the 32-year-old announced her comeback the outpouring of joy from her colleagues has been unanimous.

Top seed Barty echoed the sentiment of the rest of the draw.

“It's incredible to have Carla back. When she came back on tour, it was just a sense of excitement from everyone. To know that she's got this tremendous character of resilience and strength, longevity.

"She's been on the Tour for a long time at the very top of the game. I think for me to be able to experience opening Centre Court on Tuesday with her is going to be really cool,” said the Australian.

“I hope that we have a great match. I know I'm going to have to bring my very best level to be able to compete with her. She's been one of the best for a long time.

"Just to see her back here doing what she loves has brought a smile to not only my face but all the other players, the teams. I know the tour staff as well were genuinely excited to see her back. It’s really awesome.”

Back on Thursday 2019 champion Simona Halep asked the Spaniard for a photo following her practice.

The feel-good factor surrounding Suarez Navarro’s return has swept through the field and was reciprocated, giving her an almighty boost during her illness.

“It’s so special, I’ve known Simona from a long time ago. Also the rest of the players during my treatment, they call me, a lot ask me how I’m feeling. I really feel that respect, it was something positive that gave me a lot of energy,” said the Spaniard.

“I’m very thankful, I really appreciate all the support and the players asking after for all those days.

“They all know it’s my last year, my last tournaments, so everything is very special for me.” 

Carla’s Mother Maria Dolores has been courtside, filming precious moments from her final practices at SW19. It’s all about embracing, soaking up and cherishing the last professional visit to The All England Club. 

“I was out for a long time, played at Roland-Garros. It was incredible after the pandemic, everything I had to go through. I had to enjoy every day I was back on court.

"I don’t know how to say it, to express it, but it’s only been good energy,” explained Suarez Navarro, having reached the fourth round twice here in 10 previous main draw appearances. 

Two opponents stick out in SW19 highlights.

“I’ve played a lot of matches here. My last match against Serena (6-2, 6-2 defeat in the 2019 fourth round), I loved playing the Olympics here in 2012.

"I remember facing Venus one year too (2016 fourth round, with a 7-6(3), 6-4 defeat). Either Williams, here, is extra special. I think I’ll choose both of them,” stated the 32-year-old. 

“Any chance to play here, at this beautiful place is incredible. It’s all green, all perfect and also all white.” 

The target is to bring down the curtain on a magnificent career at the US Open, but just before jetting to New York, Suarez Navarro will fly the flag for Spain at a third Olympic Games. 

“During my treatment I had the Olympic Games in my mind the whole time. I really wanted to be in Tokyo. I’m in and it’s one of the most special events you can play in your career. I’m just so happy I’ll be there.” 

A medal moment would really crown an astonishing story, but for now it’s time to saviour Carla and that sumptuous single-handed backhand on the lawns of Wimbledon.