Djokovic Calls Williams' Wimbledon Return Inspirational as She Receives Wild Card at Age 44

Novak Djokovic said Serena Williams' return to competitive tennis is truly inspirational and epic. ESPN reported that Djokovic spoke to Williams directly and told her that whatever happens, her effort is remarkable for him personally and for millions of fans. Williams, 44, will play at Wimbledon for the first time in four years after receiving a wild card into the singles main draw.

She is a seven-time singles champion at the tournament and holds a record 23 women's major titles in the Open era. She will face Australian world No. 53 Maya Joint in the first round. Williams is also scheduled to partner with her sister Venus, 46, in the women's doubles event.

The pair drew Camila Osorio and Solana Sierra in the first round. Djokovic, a seven-time Wimbledon champion, added that he sees Williams training in the gym more often than during her prime. He said the effort shows she wants the comeback to succeed and that she deserves to enjoy the moment.

Djokovic, 39, is preparing for his own Wimbledon campaign after a third-round loss at the French Open last month.