Serena Williams was eliminated in the first round of Wimbledon. The 44-year-old American lost to 20-year-old Australian Maya Joint in three sets: 6-3, 6-7(6), 6-3. The match was played on Centre Court, marking Williams' return to singles at Wimbledon.
An anticipated return, an immediate release
This match was Serena Williams' first singles match since the 2022 US Open. She had received a wildcard entry into the main draw of Wimbledon, a tournament she has won seven times in singles. Her comeback attracted considerable attention, but it ended abruptly in her opening match.
Williams snatches the second set, Joint regains control
Maya Joint won the first set 6-3. Serena Williams then fought back in the second set, which she won in a tiebreak 8-6, to level the match at one set apiece. In the third set, Joint regained the advantage and closed it out 6-3.
Maya Joint, ranked 87th in the world, secured one of the most significant victories of her young career. She defeated a player with 23 Grand Slam singles titles and advanced to the second round. She will now face Alexandra Eala.
Serena Williams remains entered in doubles
The elimination only concerns the women's singles. Serena Williams remains entered in doubles with her sister Venus Williams, who also received a wildcard entry. But Serena Williams' return to Wimbledon will therefore have lasted only one singles match.
