Wimbledon: Novak Djokovic says Serena Williams comeback is inspirational

Novak Djokovic described Serena Williams’ return to Wimbledon as “inspirational and epic” on Saturday, saying the American great’s comeback has earned the admiration of the entire tennis world as he prepares to chase a record 25th Grand Slam title at the All England Club.

Williams, 44, has become the biggest talking point ahead of this year’s Championships after accepting wild cards for both the singles and doubles events. The 23-time Grand Slam singles champion will play her first singles match in nearly four years when she faces Australia’s Maya Joint in the opening round on Tuesday.

Djokovic, who begins his campaign against China’s Wu Yibing, said Williams’ dedication had stood out during the build-up to the tournament.

“I see her in the gym more than I have, I think, seen her when she was at her prime,” Djokovic told reporters.

“It tells me that she really wants this to work out the best way possible.”

The Serbian said he met Williams earlier this week and did not hesitate to tell her what her return meant.

“First and foremost, what she’s doing is inspirational and it’s epic. That’s what I told her,” Djokovic said. “I always admired her career, her journey, her story. Of course, Venus’ as well.”

Williams has not played a competitive singles match since the 2022 US Open, where she announced she was stepping away from the sport. Since then, she has had her second child before deciding to return to the tour.

Djokovic said the effort Williams had put into making another comeback deserved recognition regardless of the result.

“It’s admirable, honestly, the effort she’s putting in. Of course, all eyes are on her, her comeback. I just hope she will enjoy because she really deserves it. She created something historical, legendary in her career.

“For her to come back after years of being absent from the tour, two children later, and to give so much effort, not just for her own satisfaction or coming back on the tour, but also to give all of us the pleasure of seeing her back on the court, in singles as well as doubles, is remarkable.

“I told her that whatever happens, what she’s doing is truly inspirational for me personally, and I’m sure for millions around the world.”

While Williams attempts to add an eighth Wimbledon singles title to her collection, Djokovic is pursuing history of his own. The 39-year-old is bidding for an eighth Wimbledon crown and an unprecedented 25th Grand Slam singles title.

Williams’ comeback has drawn praise from across the locker room.

American Ben Shelton called the 44-year-old’s return “insanely impressive”, while reigning French Open champion Mirra Andreeva admitted she was relieved not to be drawn against the former world No. 1.

“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 it would only 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.

Williams last appeared at Wimbledon in 2022, losing in the opening round before ending her career later that year at the US Open. She could face defending champion Iga Swiatek in the third round if both players advance.

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