Djokovic Calls Williams' Wimbledon Return Inspirational as She Faces Joint in First-Round Match

Novak Djokovic said Serena Williams' return to competitive singles tennis after nearly four years is truly inspirational and epic. The 39-year-old Djokovic, who is bidding for a record 25th major title at Wimbledon, spoke to Williams directly ahead of her first-round match.

Djokovic told Williams that whatever happens, what she is doing is truly inspirational for him personally and for millions around the world.

He added that he sees her in the gym more than when she was at her prime and that her effort after years away from the tour and two children later is remarkable. Williams, 44, accepted a wild-card entry and will face Australia's Maya Joint in the third match on Centre Court on Tuesday.

She is also scheduled to play doubles with her sister Venus against Camila Osorio and Solana Sierra on Wednesday.

Williams last played singles at the 2022 U.S. Open and has been absent from the tour for over 1,400 days. Williams is a seven-time Wimbledon singles champion and holds a record 23 women's major singles titles in the Open era.

She is listed at 50/1 to win a record-tying 24th major. Coco Gauff said Serena and Venus Williams are the biggest inspiration on her, while Aryna Sabalenka said Williams is bringing more eyes on tennis. Djokovic opens Wimbledon against China's Wu Yibing.

He has not won a major since the 2023 U.S. Open, lost in the third round at Roland Garros, and has battled a shoulder injury in recent weeks. He is the second favorite to win the Wimbledon title.