Serena Williams to Make Singles Return at Wimbledon After Four-Year Hiatus

LONDON (CNA) — The Wimbledon Championships draw was officially released today, marking the return of American tennis legend Serena Williams to singles competition for the first time in four years. Williams is scheduled to compete in the first round on the grass courts next week against Australian prospect Maya Joint.

At 44 years old, Williams had previously announced her retirement in 2022. However, she generated significant attention earlier this month by returning to participate in doubles events at the Queen's Club and the Berlin Open.

Throughout her career, Williams has secured 23 Grand Slam singles titles, including seven at Wimbledon. She received a wild card entry for this year’s tournament. Her last appearance at Wimbledon was in 2022, where she was defeated in the first round by Harmony Tan.

Her last singles match took place nearly four years ago at the US Open. Williams announced her comeback prior to the Queen's Club event, expressing a desire to compete in front of her two young daughters.

Should Williams defeat the 20-year-old world No. 53, Maya Joint, she could face the tournament’s 29th seed, Philippine rising star Alexandra Eala, in the second round.