Serena Williams Returns to Wimbledon Singles After Four-Year Hiatus

On 30 June 2026, 44-year-old Serena Williams opened her Wimbledon singles comeback against 20-year-old Australian Maya Joint on Centre Court. Williams lost 6-3, 6-7(6), 6-3. Wimbledon analytics gave her under a 5 % chance to win the second set after trailing, yet she forced a deciding set.

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Williams’ 2022 Wimbledon loss to Harmony Tan left her ranked 1,204 and battling injuries. Since then she welcomed a second daughter, expanded business ventures, co-founded a National Women’s Soccer League franchise, and performed at the Super Bowl halftime show. A doubles appearance at Queen’s Club in June 2024 hinted at a return. The match featured Williams, a 23-time Grand Slam champion with seven Wimbledon titles, and Maya Joint, world No. 87 and her third Grand Slam win. Other notable figures include Venus Williams (doubles partner), world No. 3 Iga Swiatek, and former world No. 1 Novak Djokovic.

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Williams served at speeds over 120 mph and produced more winners than in her 2022 Wimbledon match, but her unforced errors increased. Joint’s victory was her third Grand Slam singles win.

Maya Joint 'had the belief' to beat Serena Williams at Wimbledon

Williams described the atmosphere as “amazing” and said walking onto Centre Court felt like a victory, noting that success now means enjoying the moment and following her coach’s plan. Joint praised Williams’ “aura” and credited belief in herself for the win. Swiatek called Williams the “GOAT” and expressed a desire to learn from her. Djokovic highlighted Williams’ gym work as evidence of dedication. Critics noted occasional mistimed groundstrokes and reduced accuracy, suggesting rust. Spectators repeatedly chanted “Come on, Serena!” while media filled the players’ box, where husband Alexis Ohanian and daughters watched.

CNN

All sources agree on the score and basic narrative; no contradictory accounts appear. Detailed serve percentages and injury status were not released.

Maya Joint 'had the belief' to beat Serena Williams at Wimbledon

• “It was really great to be back at Wimbledon. I never expected to be here,” — Serena Williams, post-match

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• “Success is enjoying myself and sticking to my gameplan that my coach gives me, being disciplined – and that’s what I’m trying to do.” — Serena Williams, BBC interview

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• “I didn’t get much sleep last night. I was up until like 2 a.m. just thinking about it,” — Maya Joint, on-court interview

Maya Joint 'had the belief' to beat Serena Williams at Wimbledon

• “It tells me that she really wants this to work out the best way possible.” — Novak Djokovic, BBC Sport

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Williams will return later in the week for the women’s doubles draw with Venus Williams. Her future singles participation remains undecided, but the wildcard entry and strong public response suggest continued interest.

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