TENNIS: Serena's Wimbledon comeback fizzles out in first round

LONDON — Serena Williams’ much-anticipated return to competitive tennis ended in disappointment on Tuesday as she fell 6-3, 6-7(6), 6-3 to Australia’s Maya Joint in the opening round of Wimbledon Championships.

Williams, 44, was attempting to make a landmark comeback after a four-year absence, with hopes of becoming the oldest woman to win a singles match at the All England Club since Martina Navratilova in 2004. However, Joint produced a composed and determined performance to spoil the occasion and claim the biggest win of her young career.

The 20-year-old Australian entered the match with limited momentum, having managed just one win in her previous 12 tournaments. But she rose to the occasion on Centre Court, handling the pressure of facing one of tennis’ most decorated champions with remarkable composure.

Despite the hype surrounding Williams’ return, Joint played aggressively from the outset, pushing the American deep behind the baseline and taking control of the early exchanges. Williams gradually found her rhythm, though, and the match shifted dramatically in a tense second set.

Williams, who last won a singles title at Wimbledon 10 years ago, summoned flashes of her trademark power and resilience. She saved match point and forced a tiebreak, where she delivered a 122 mph serve to level the contest and briefly ignite hopes of a comeback victory.

Centre Court was filled with anticipation throughout the match, with former champion Venus Williams among those watching from the stands. Williams’ children, Olympia and Adira, were also present, while tennis legend John McEnroe described the atmosphere surrounding the comeback as electric.

However, Joint regained control in the deciding set, maintaining her intensity and composure as Williams began to struggle for consistency. The match concluded when Williams sent a return long, sealing a memorable victory for the Australian.

After the match, Joint expressed disbelief at her breakthrough win on one of tennis’ biggest stages, saying she had dreamed of such a moment since childhood. Williams, meanwhile, acknowledged the emotional significance of her return and the special atmosphere of playing again at Wimbledon.

“I never expected to be here. The atmosphere was amazing,” Williams said. “I definitely relished it and enjoyed the moment more than anything.”

Joint will advance to the second round, where she is set to face Filipino 29th seed Alexandra Eala. -Reporting by Pritha Sarkar; Additional reporting by Amy-Jo Crowley; Editing by Alison Williams/Reuters