Serena Williams is set to make her singles return to Wimbledon this week at the age of 44, accepting a wild card entry to compete in the first round on Tuesday evening at Centre Court. The 23-time Grand Slam singles champion had initially been undecided about playing singles, having already committed to doubles alongside her sister, Venus Williams. Speaking at a Sunday press conference, Williams described how she had to convince herself to take the opportunity, acknowledging mixed emotions about returning to singles competition after a four-year hiatus.
“This could be it,” Williams said, reflecting on the rarity of the chance to compete again at the prestigious grass-court major. She admitted to second-guessing the decision, noting, “I was like, ‘What’s wrong with me, Serena? Are you nuts? Like you really should do this.’” Williams characterized the process as “evolving” away from tennis since her last singles appearance at the 2022 U.S. Open, where she lost in the third round. Her most recent Wimbledon singles outing was also in 2022, when she exited in the first round.
Williams will face 20-year-old Australian Maya Joint in the opening round. Joint, currently ranked No. 87 in the WTA standings, has won just two matches at Grand Slam events. Williams acknowledged familiarity with her opponent but emphasized her own readiness: “I’m sure she knows my game.” Should Williams advance, a potential third-round clash against defending champion Iga Swiatek looms, adding intrigue to her comeback path.
The return to competitive play began for Williams earlier this month in doubles, partnering with Canadian rising star Victoria Mboko at the Queen’s Club tournament in London. Although her team won their initial match, they withdrew due to Mboko’s injury. Williams will also team with older sister Venus, a five-time Wimbledon singles champion, in the doubles draw this week.
Williams described returning to Wimbledon’s practice courts as “kind of like riding a bike,” but admitted nerves are part of the experience. “I expect to be nervous. I was also nervous every single match I ever played in my life,” she said, underscoring the passion she still holds for competing.
Her comeback has generated widespread attention and praise from her peers. Novak Djokovic commended Williams’ dedication, noting her intense training and calling her effort “admirable.” Aryna Sabalenka expressed excitement about the impact Williams’ presence brings to the sport, highlighting the increased visibility and interest in tennis.
Williams sees her return as an opportunity to inspire, encouraging others to pursue their dreams despite challenges. “You have to believe in yourself and go for any dream, no matter how wild it may be,” she said.
Alongside Williams’ return, Wimbledon this year features a strong contingent of Canadian players, including Félix Auger-Aliassime, Denis Shapovalov, Gabriel Diallo, Leylah Annie Fernandez, and Bianca Andreescu. Fernandez and Gabriela Dabrowski also appear in doubles competition, showcasing a broad international field as the tournament begins.