SPORTS

London: Serena Williams draws Joint in Wimbledon return

▪

Read, Watch or Listen

Media Bias Meter

Sources: 2

Center 100%

Sources: 2

Serena Williams will face Australia’s Maya Joint in the first round of Wimbledon after receiving a wildcard for her return to the tournament, organisers confirmed on Friday in London. The 44-year-old American, a seven-time Wimbledon singles champion with 23 Grand Slam titles overall, is contesting her first competitive singles match since the 2022 U.S. Open. Joint, ranked 53rd and a two-time WTA title winner, including a grass-court victory at Eastbourne, poses an early test on Tuesday. In other draws, women’s top seed Aryna Sabalenka meets Teodora Kostovic, defending champion Iga Swiatek faces Taylor Townsend, and men’s champion Jannik Sinner opens against Miomir Kecmanovic.

Prepared by Emily Rhodes and reviewed by editorial team.

Timeline of Events

2022 Williams plays last competitive singles match
2022 After US Open, signals tennis departure
Last year Joint wins Eastbourne grass title
Friday Wimbledon singles draws officially announced
Monday Sinner opens Centre Court against Kecmanovic
Tuesday Williams faces Joint in first round
This fortnight Sabalenka, Swiatek, Rybakina pursue titles
This tournament Djokovic targets 25th Grand Slam

Why This Matters to You

Serena Williams' return to Wimbledon is a testament to perseverance, even at 44. It's a reminder that age is just a number when it comes to chasing your passions. If you're a tennis fan, Tuesday's match against Joint is a must-watch.

The Bottom Line

Williams' comeback could shake up the tournament. But she's up against a formidable opponent in Joint. Keep an eye on other key players like Sabalenka, Swiatek, and Sinner too. Worth forwarding if you know someone who loves a good comeback story.