Serena Williams Returns to Wimbledon: A Surprise Comeback

Serena Williams’ return to the tennis courts has surprised many, including herself. During her first press conference for Wimbledon, Williams expressed disbelief at her comeback, saying, “When I evolved, I never thought I’d come back.”

The 23-time Grand Slam singles winner participated in her first professional match since the 2022 US Open in doubles with Victoria Mboko at the HSBC Championships on June 9. Following this, she partnered with Karolina Muchova for the doubles draw at the Berlin Tennis Open. Now, Williams, at 44, is stepping back into singles competition as a wild card entry at Wimbledon.

Williams described her decision-making process for entering Wimbledon. She stated, “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.” Her doubts were evident, but Williams ultimately accepted the opportunity, citing that it might not come again.

She acknowledged her nerves, explaining, “I expect to be nervous. 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 the internal pep talk she gave herself, questioning her decision to go forward with the wild card offer. She concluded that she couldn’t let go of the rare chance to play.

Williams boasts an impressive record at Wimbledon with seven singles titles, the most recent being in 2016. She will face Maya Joint from Australia on Tuesday, June 30. Additionally, Williams will team up with her sister, Venus Williams, 46, for doubles. The Williams sisters have won 14 Grand Slam doubles titles together, with six victories at Wimbledon.