Serena Williams is making a surprise return to Wimbledon singles competition, accepting a wildcard for the 2026 tournament. The tennis icon, who last played singles at Wimbledon in 2022, will also compete in doubles with her sister Venus, marking her comeback after a four-year hiatus.
A Stunned Return
Serena Williams will make a stunning return to singles competition at Wimbledon after being awarded a wildcard by the All England Club. The 23-time Grand Slam champion, who last played singles at Wimbledon in 2022, will also compete in doubles with her sister Venus. The announcement comes after Williams' recent doubles appearances at Queen's Club and Berlin, marking her return to professional tennis after a four-year hiatus.
Legend's Legacy and Hiatus
Williams, 44, has not officially retired, stating in 2022 that she would 'evolve away from tennis.' Her last singles match was a loss to Harmony Tan in the first round of Wimbledon 2022. The seven-time Wimbledon singles champion has won 23 major titles and spent 319 weeks as the WTA world number one.
Wimbledon Wildcard Tradition
The wildcard invitation is typically reserved for players with illustrious careers or those returning from injury. Williams first appeared at Wimbledon in 1998 and has since won six doubles titles at the tournament, all with Venus. The 2026 Wimbledon tournament begins on June 29.