Serena Williams will mark her long-awaited return to Grand Slam singles when she faces Australia’s Maya Joint in the opening round of Wimbledon. The 44-year-old American has received a wildcard into the main draw and will play her first competitive singles match since the 2022 US Open.
The seven-time Wimbledon champion begins her comeback against world number 53 Joint, who has struggled for form after winning just one of her last 14 matches.
Williams returns to Centre Court spotlight
Williams’ name generated the biggest anticipation during Thursday’s draw ceremony at the All England Club. The 23-time Grand Slam singles champion has not competed since announcing the end of her career at the 2022 US Open but recently confirmed her return to the sport.
A victory over Joint could set up a second-round meeting with 29th seed Alexandra Eala before a potential third-round clash against defending champion Iga Swiatek.
Raducanu faces fitness concern
British number one Emma Raducanu has been drawn against Croatia’s Antonia Ruzic in the opening round. However, the 30th seed remains a fitness doubt after missing practice because of a shin injury.
Should Raducanu progress, she could meet top seed Aryna Sabalenka in the third round, repeating last year’s Wimbledon encounter.
Tough opening test for Draper
In the men’s draw, Britain’s Jack Draper has been handed a difficult first-round match against sixth seed Taylor Fritz of the United States.
Draper has recently returned from injury and is enjoying a promising run at Eastbourne under the guidance of new coach Andy Murray.
Champions begin title bids
Novak Djokovic starts his pursuit of a record 25th Grand Slam singles title against China’s Wu Yibing, while world number one Jannik Sinner opens his Wimbledon title defence against Serbia’s Miomir Kecmanovic.
Defending women’s champion Iga Swiatek will begin her campaign against American Taylor Townsend, while Carlos Alcaraz misses this year’s tournament as he continues to recover from a wrist injury.
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