Serena Williams has stepped back onto Wimbledon’s Centre Court. This marks her return four years after pausing from singles tennis. Williams faces 20-year-old Australian Maya Joint in a much-anticipated opening-round match.
Williams, who has won Wimbledon singles titles seven times, is playing her first singles match since the 2022 U.S. Open. She recently returned to doubles competition.
Jon Wertheim from Sports Illustrated commented on her impact. He told NPR’s Morning Edition, “She is still Serena Williams. Her aura almost matters as much as her play.” Though winning an eighth title might be challenging, Wertheim believes she has a good chance in the first round.
Other players in the women’s draw include top-ranked Aryna Sabalenka, defending champion Iga Świątek, and American Jessica Pegula. The competition remains intense.
In men’s tennis, Jannik Sinner leads as the defending champion despite a tough five-set start. Wertheim identifies Americans Ben Shelton and Frances Tiafoe as key players to follow, suggesting a strong U.S. presence by 2026.
You can hear more insights by listening to the full interview with the blue play button above. Majd Al-Waheidi adapted the radio version for the web, with editing by Treye Green.
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