Serena Williams loses first singles match at Wimbledon in four years

US player Serena Williams waved goodbye as she left the court after losing to Australia's Maya Joint. This was their women's singles first round tennis match on the second day of the 2026 Wimbledon Championships. The event took place at The All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club in Wimbledon, southwest London, on June 30, 2026. (Photo by Henry Nicholls / AFP)

Serena Williams’ dream of a fairytale return to Wimbledon ended when she lost to Australia’s Maya Joint. The American star's first singles match in four years finished with a score of 6-3, 6-7 (6/8), 6-3 on Tuesday.

Williams has inspired many with her comeback journey, but she could not add another memorable chapter to her amazing career at the All England Club.

At 44 years old, Serena was the second-oldest player to compete in the Wimbledon women’s singles in the Open era. The only player older than her was Martina Navratilova, who reached the second round at 47 in 2004.

The seven-time Wimbledon champion played hard but after being away for so long, it was tough for her to overcome a determined opponent on Centre Court.

In the second set, Serena saved two match points and took the match into a deciding set after a tough battle lasting two hours and 22 minutes. She had a break lead but Joint fought back to ruin the celebration.

Williams’ journey at Wimbledon is not finished yet. She will also play in the doubles with her sister Venus.