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Serena WilliamsCentre Court Return Ends in First‑Round Loss

The defeat leaves Wimbledon’s early draw unusually open, increasing scrutiny on player fitness and welfare at the All England Club.

Overview

  • Serena Williams was beaten 6-3, 6-7(6), 6-3 by 20‑year‑old Maya Joint in her Centre Court singles return on Tuesday, ending her comeback bid at Wimbledon.
  • Williams accepted wildcards for both singles and doubles and will still pair with sister Venus in the doubles event later in the tournament.
  • The tournament’s early rounds have been unsettled by injuries and surprises, with high‑profile withdrawals including Emma Raducanu and Jack Draper and a heavy set of first‑round losses for British players.
  • Top names kept progressing under pressure: defending men’s champion Jannik Sinner survived a five‑set opener while Aryna Sabalenka and Iga Swiatek advanced to the second round.
  • Players briefly planned limited media activity over prize‑money and welfare concerns but called off a planned protest after what were described as constructive talks with All England Club officials, a development that could alter post‑match duties this fortnight.