London: Novak Djokovic has described Serena Williams’ return to Wimbledon as “inspirational and epic”, saying the American tennis legend’s comeback has captivated the sporting world ahead of this year’s Championships.
Williams, 44, has become the biggest talking point ahead of Wimbledon after accepting wild cards for both the singles and doubles events. The 23-time Grand Slam champion will play her first singles match in nearly four years when she takes on Australia’s Maya Joint in the opening round on Tuesday.
Djokovic praises Serena’s determination
Speaking to reporters ahead of the tournament, Djokovic said he had been impressed by Williams’ dedication and preparation for her return to competitive tennis.
“I see her in the gym more than I have, I think, seen her when she was at her prime. It tells me that she really wants this to work out the best way possible,” Djokovic said.
The Serbian star revealed that he met Williams earlier this week and personally conveyed his admiration for her comeback.
“First and foremost, what she’s doing is inspirational and it’s epic. That’s what I told her. I always admired her career, her journey and her story,” he said.
Remarkable return after nearly four years
Williams has not played a competitive singles match since the 2022 US Open, where she announced that she was stepping away from professional tennis.
Since then, the American great has had her second child and has now decided to return to the sport, aiming to add another chapter to one of the most celebrated careers in tennis history.
Djokovic said the effort Williams has put into her comeback deserves appreciation regardless of the results she achieves at Wimbledon.
“It’s admirable, honestly, the effort she’s putting in. All eyes are on her and her comeback. I just hope she enjoys it because she really deserves it,” he said.
He added that Williams has already achieved legendary status and that her return, after years away from the tour and following motherhood, is remarkable and inspiring for athletes around the world.
Praise from across the tennis world
Williams’ return has generated excitement throughout the tennis community.
American player Ben Shelton described the comeback as “insanely impressive”, while reigning French Open champion Mirra Andreeva admitted she was relieved not to have drawn the former world No. 1 in the opening rounds.
“I would never think I would actually play the same tournament as her,” Andreeva said.
World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka also welcomed Williams’ return, saying her presence would benefit the sport.
“It’s amazing what she’s doing. It’s Serena Williams. Everyone was talking about that. She’s bringing more eyes on tennis. It’s a good thing for tennis. I’m really excited to see her play,” Sabalenka said.
History beckons for both champions
While Williams is attempting to win an eighth Wimbledon singles title, Djokovic is also chasing history at the All England Club.
The 39-year-old Serbian is bidding for an eighth Wimbledon crown and a record 25th Grand Slam singles title, which would take him past Margaret Court’s tally and make him the most successful singles player in Grand Slam history.
Williams last competed at Wimbledon in 2022, when she exited in the opening round before ending her career later that year at the US Open.
If she progresses through the draw this year, she could face defending champion Iga Swiatek in the third round.
Regardless of the outcome, Williams’ return has already become one of the defining stories of this year’s Wimbledon, rekindling memories of her extraordinary career and inspiring players and fans alike.