Serena Williams’ much-anticipated return to Wimbledon has suffered a setback after the 44-year-old sustained a right knee injury during her first-round singles match. The injury has raised doubts over her participation in the women’s doubles event alongside sister Venus Williams.
Serena picks up injury in opening-round defeat
Williams injured her right knee late in the opening set of her match against Australia’s Maya Joint. Despite the discomfort, the 23-time Grand Slam champion completed the contest before leaving the court.
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Following the match, Williams was excused from her mandatory press conference by Wimbledon and WTA medical officials. Her agent later confirmed that she had tweaked her right knee but was able to leave the venue on her own.
Centre Court rises for @serenawilliams 🫶#Wimbledon pic.twitter.com/O3XRkjQ4cv— Wimbledon (@Wimbledon) June 30, 2026
The American legend is now receiving treatment and will continue to be assessed before making a decision on her doubles appearance.
Doubles campaign hangs in the balance
Williams had returned to Wimbledon with wildcard entries in both the singles and doubles draws, marking her first singles appearance at the tournament in four years. However, her comeback ended with a first-round loss to 20-year-old Maya Joint.
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Attention has now shifted to the women’s doubles event, where Serena is scheduled to partner her sister Venus Williams. The pair are due to face Solana Sierra and Camila Osorio in the opening round, but Serena’s availability remains uncertain because of the knee issue.
So Serena doesn’t play a match for 4 years
Gets a Wildcard into the biggest tournament on the calendar
Loses to a player with a 3-13 record and 103 in the race this year
Gives a rubbish handshake
Refuses to do press
Didn’t need her at Wimbledon pic.twitter.com/KFbdDILpEZ— Todd Scoullar (@ToddScoullar) June 30, 2026
Her team remains hopeful that she will recover in time, although no final decision has been announced.
Despite the injury and early singles exit, Williams’ return to the All England Club was one of the biggest talking points of this year’s tournament. Fans welcomed the seven-time Wimbledon singles champion with a standing ovation as she made her long-awaited comeback.
Tournament officials are expected to monitor her recovery over the coming days before confirming whether she will take the court in doubles.
