Alexis Ohanian issued an eight-word statement of support for his wife Serena Williams as the tennis legend made her return to Wimbledon singles competition after a four-year absence. The 44-year-old American stepped onto Centre Court for her first singles match at SW19 since 2022, with her family in attendance to witness the occasion.
Family Support on Centre Court
Ohanian, the Reddit co-founder, watched from the stands alongside the couple's two daughters, Olympia and Adira. However, youngest daughter Adira was forced to leave before play commenced due to Wimbledon's age restrictions on spectators. The All England Club enforces a policy that limits access for very young children, a rule that has affected other players in the past.
Despite the disruption, Ohanian took to social media to share his pride. "We're so proud of you mama - cheering section," he wrote, accompanying the post with two pictures: one of Serena on court and another of himself with both daughters preparing for the action. Fans responded warmly, with one commenting, "What a joy that your girls get to see their mama, the G.O.A.T., in her element. Sending good luck wishes to you all!" Another called the post "adorable."
Match Action and Opponent
Serena Williams faced Australian opponent Maya Joint, who is more than 20 years her junior. The match proved challenging, with Joint taking the first set 6-3 in a hard-fought contest that extended into the evening. Williams, a multiple former Wimbledon champion, received vocal support from the crowd as she sought to advance in the tournament.
Elder daughter Olympia, who is older than Adira, was permitted to remain and watch the action from the stands. The age rule had previously impacted Andy Murray in 2024, when only two of his four children were allowed to attend his matches at Wimbledon.
Williams' Decision and Expectations
Speaking before the match, Williams revealed that she had left the decision to compete until the last moment. "I think... I had until Monday to decide. I think it was like Sunday [when I decided]," she said. "I just wasn't sure up until then. Honestly, I'm still not even sure, but we'll see (smiling)."
Williams acknowledged that her feelings about competing had evolved over time. "I think my feelings will be different," she said over the weekend. "I think in general my expectations are definitely different for the first time in my career. I feel like my feelings are just - not that I never enjoyed it before, or else I wouldn't be here today - but I feel like I'm really going to enjoy being out there."
The match against Joint was suspended due to darkness, with the outcome yet to be determined as play continues.
