Serena Williams Returns to Wimbledon After Four Years

Serena Williams, representing the United States, stepped onto Centre Court at Wimbledon on June 30, 2026, to the sound of roaring applause. Despite not having played a singles match since the 2022 U.S. Open, the 44-year-old stood opposite 20-year-old Maya Joint from Australia. The match ended in a three-set defeat for Williams, with Joint emerging victorious in the first round.

Post-match, Serena expressed her joy in a statement, relayed by Wimbledon organizers. She remarked on the incredible atmosphere and her appreciation for being back on the legendary court.

The crowd was enthusiastic, welcoming Serena with ovation as soon as her name was announced. Among the supporters, signs of tribute were visible, showing messages like “Welcome Back.” In the tense match, Serena displayed her serving power, reaching speeds over 120 mph and executing impressive groundstrokes.

Nonetheless, Joint managed to challenge Serena’s agility. The 87th-ranked Australian managed to contest Serena’s pace and crucial points, leading to her significant victory. Joint reflected on her experience, remarking on Serena’s legendary status and the significance of the moment for her.

Serena, a seven-time Wimbledon singles champion, accepted wild card invitations to participate in both singles and doubles, the latter with sister Venus. This tournament marked a special family occasion with Serena’s daughters cheering from the stands, with her youngest Adira witnessing her mother’s singles play for the first time.

Other Wimbledon Results

Elsewhere at Wimbledon, big names continued to make progress. Alexander Zverev and Iga Swiatek, both notable players, secured their places in the next round. Zverev overcame Alexander Blockx in a closely fought match, while Swiatek defeated Taylor Townsend despite struggling with her serve.

Elena Rybakina, seeded second, also advanced by defeating Lois Boisson. However, there was an upset for Ben Shelton, the fourth seed, who fell to Otto Virtanen, a 140th-ranked qualifier from Finland, in a five-set battle.

In a farewell appearance, Stan Wawrinka faced Matteo Berrettini, with Berrettini winning in a four-tiebreaker match. Wawrinka plans to retire by the year’s end, marking the match as his last at Wimbledon.