Serena Williams is back at Wimbledon, and her presence is palpable around SW19. The six-time champion will make her highly anticipated return against Maya Joint on Centre Court on Tuesday, a scenario few expected just five weeks ago. Williams herself admitted, "I never thought I would do this again."
Practice Session Reveals Sharp Form
After a four-year retirement, the 44-year-old mother of two practiced on Monday, showing she is not merely participating. Despite bookmakers offering odds of 80/1 for her to win a seventh title, her practice session suggested otherwise. John McEnroe speculated that Williams believes she can win again.
During a 20-minute observation, Williams displayed a full arsenal of shots. Even at an estimated 40 percent effort, her forehands and backhands were too much for her male hitting partners. She made it look effortless, punctuating rallies with a deft drop shot that left her partner scrambling in vain.
Emphasis on Net Play
One standout element was her focus on volleys and net play. Most rallies ended with Williams sprinting to the net to practice volleys. While a few found the net, the majority were winners, hinting at a front-footed strategy for Tuesday's match.
Williams has played only two doubles matches since the 2022 US Open, but her movement and shot-making appeared far from those of a 44-year-old. The intensity will undoubtedly increase on Centre Court, but her practice suggested she is ready to test Joint's joints.
Opponent Maya Joint
Joint, 20, made her Wimbledon debut last year but lost in the first round. She could be overwhelmed if Williams comes out firing. Regardless of the outcome, the Wimbledon queen's return adds a buzz to the championships.
