Serena Williams Returns to Tennis at Wimbledon

Serena Williams’ return to tennis has captivated fans worldwide. The tennis legend is equally surprised by her comeback. During her first Wimbledon press conference, Williams shared her astonishment, remarking, “When I evolved, I never thought I’d come back.”

The 23-time Grand Slam singles champion recently resumed her professional career, appearing in her first match since the 2022 US Open. She participated in doubles with Victoria Mboko at the HSBC Championships on June 9, followed by a team-up with Karolina Muchova at the Berlin Tennis Open.

Now, at 44, Williams will compete in singles as a wild card entrant at Wimbledon. Reflecting on her decision, she said, “I had until Monday to decide. I think it was, like, Sunday because I just wasn’t sure up until then. Honestly, I’m still not even sure, but we’ll see.”

“I expect to be nervous,” Williams admitted during the conference. “I was also nervous every single match I ever played in my life. I think that showed the passion and the love and the care — that I cared about my job. Whether it was the first round or the second round or the finals, I’ve always had some nerves. But then I just dust ’em off, then I move on.”

Williams shared that she debated accepting the Wimbledon wild card, giving herself a pep talk: “What’s wrong with me, Serena? What are you thinking? Are you nuts?” Ultimately, she decided to seize the chance, recognizing the rarity of such opportunities.

Williams has an impressive record, with seven Wimbledon singles titles, the last one in 2016. She is set to face Australia’s Maya Joint, 20, on Tuesday, June 30. In addition to singles, Williams will play doubles with her sister Venus Williams, aged 46. The duo has claimed 14 Grand Slam doubles titles, including six at Wimbledon.

For more insights, watch Serena Williams’ full Wimbledon press conference below.