Novak Djokovic traces Wimbledon history with Serena Williams as inspiration

Novak Djokovic described Serena Williams’ return to Wimbledon on Saturday as “inspirational and epic” and said the American great’s return has earned the admiration of the tennis world as she prepares to chase a record 25th Grand Slam title at the All England Club.

The 44-year-old Williams has become the biggest talking point ahead of this year’s championships after receiving both singles and doubles wild cards. The 23-time Grand Slam singles champion will play her first singles match in almost four years when she takes on Australia’s Maya Joint in the opening round on Tuesday.

Djokovic, who opens her campaign against China’s Wu Yibing, said Williams’ dedication stood out during the build-up to the tournament.

“I see her in the gym more than I think I saw her in her prime,” Djokovic told reporters.

“It tells me that he really wants it to go the best way possible.

The Serb said he met Williams earlier this week and didn’t hesitate to tell her what her return meant.

“First of all, what she’s doing is inspiring and it’s epic. I told her that,” Djokovic said. “I’ve always admired her career, her journey, her story. Venus, too, of course.”

Williams has not played competitive singles since the 2022 US Open, where she announced her retirement from the sport. She has since given birth to her second child before deciding to return to touring.

Djokovic said the effort Williams put into another comeback deserved credit regardless of the outcome.

“It’s admirable, honestly, the effort she’s putting in. All eyes are obviously on her, her comeback. I just hope she enjoys it because she really deserves it. She’s created something historic, legendary in her career.

“It’s remarkable that she’s come back after years of being away on tour after two kids, and she’s put in so much effort not just for her own satisfaction or getting back on tour, but to give us all the pleasure of seeing her back on court, in singles and doubles.

“I told her that whatever happens, what she’s doing is really inspiring to me personally and I’m sure to millions of people around the world.”

While Williams tries to add an eighth Wimbledon singles title to her collection, Djokovic is focusing on his own history. The 39-year-old is bidding for an eighth Wimbledon crown and an unprecedented 25th Grand Slam singles title.

Williams’ comeback drew praise from across the locker room.

American Ben Shelton described the 44-year-old’s comeback as “insanely impressive”, while reigning French Open champion Mirra Andreeva admitted she was relieved not to be drawn against the former world number one.

“I never thought I would play the same tournament as her,” Andreeva said.

World number one Aryna Sabalenka also welcomed Williams’ return, saying it would only benefit the sport.

“It’s amazing what she’s doing. She’s Serena Williams. Everyone’s been talking about it. She’s bringing more perspectives to tennis. It’s a good thing for tennis. I’m really excited to see her play,” Sabalenka said.

Williams last appeared at Wimbledon in 2022, losing in the opening round before ending her career later that year at the US Open. If both players advance, she could face defending champion Iga Swiateková in the third round.

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Issued by:

Saurabh Kumar

Published on:

June 28, 2026 1:00 PM IST