The All England Club’s grass has seen legends come and go. None has defined the modern era quite like Serena Williams. At 44, the American is preparing to step onto the London lawns one more time in singles, four years after her first-round loss to Harmony Tan in 2022.
The number 23 tells the story of her career. Twenty-three Grand Slam singles titles, an Open Era record. Seven Wimbledon crowns, in 2002, 2003, 2009, 2010, 2012, 2015, and 2016. Her last major title came at the 2017 Australian Open, won while pregnant with her daughter Olympia. She was 35.
Williams harbours no illusions about her chances. «I don’t need to win. I’ve won more than most people», she said. Her motivation lies elsewhere, deeply personal. «It’s really about my kids getting to see me play.» Olympia, eight, and Adira, two, will be in the stands.
The comeback has been carefully planned. Williams reappeared in doubles earlier in June to find her competitive rhythm. Unranked, she received a wild card from the All England Club for singles. Her draw, set for June 27, could pit her against anyone from world number one Aryna Sabalenka to a qualifier.
She will also team up with sister Venus in doubles, an invitation that revives memories of six titles won together on the London grass. Their first doubles match is scheduled from July 2.
The sporting context makes this return even more romantic. Wimbledon 2026 is marked by Carlos Alcaraz’s absence, the introduction of video review, and a record prize pool. Williams adds her own story to the mix, that of a champion who returns not to conquer, but to take a bow.
Her first singles match is scheduled for Monday June 29 or Tuesday June 30. Whatever the result, Centre Court will give her the ovation she deserves.
