Novak Djokovic hails Serena Williams' comeback: "What she's doing is truly inspirational"
ATPSunday, 28 June 2026 at 02:30
Novak Djokovic believes Serena Williams' return to Wimbledon is one of the defining stories of this year's Championships, with the 24-time Grand Slam champion describing her comeback as "truly inspirational" after nearly four years away from singles competition.
Williams, a seven-time Wimbledon champion and winner of 23 Grand Slam singles titles, accepted a wild card into the singles and doubles draws at the All England Club. Now 44 years old, she returns after stepping away from the sport following the 2022 US Open and is set to play her first singles Grand Slam match since then.
The American will face Australia's Maya Joint, the world No. 53, in the opening round, while also teaming up with her sister Venus Williams in doubles. Her decision to resume her career after becoming a mother of two has attracted widespread attention across the tennis world.
Djokovic, who is chasing an eighth Wimbledon title that would equal Roger Federer's men's record, said he has closely followed Williams' preparations in London and explained why he believes her latest chapter transcends results on the court.
"It's epic": Djokovic explains why Serena's comeback stands out
Speaking during his pre-tournament press conference, Djokovic said he had already shared his admiration directly with Williams. “What she's doing is very inspirational, and it's epic,” the 24-time Grand Slam champion said. “That's what I told her. I have always admired her career, her journey, and her story.”
While acknowledging everything she has accomplished throughout her career, the Serbian stressed that what impresses him most is the determination required to return after such a long absence from professional tennis.
“For her to come back after years of being absent from the tour, two children later, and to put in so much effort—not just for her own satisfaction of coming back to the tour, but also to give all of us the pleasure of seeing her back on the court in singles as well as doubles—I told her that whatever happens, what she's doing is truly inspirational for me personally, and I'm sure for millions around the world."
Djokovic points to Serena's work ethic ahead of Wimbledon
Beyond the emotional significance of Williams' return, Djokovic said her daily commitment has been impossible to overlook. He revealed that during preparations at the All England Club, he has regularly seen the American putting in extensive work on and off the practice courts.
The former world No. 1 even suggested that Williams appears to be training harder now than during the peak years of her career. "I see her in the gym more than I think I ever saw her when she was at her prime,” Novak Djokovic added. “It tells me that she really wants this to work out in the best way possible."
Djokovic added that Williams deserves the reception she is expected to receive throughout the tournament, arguing that her achievements and commitment have earned the admiration of both players and spectators alike. "Of course, all eyes are on her and her comeback. She deserves every applause she's going to get."
Djokovic targets another Wimbledon title
While Williams' comeback has become one of the biggest talking points ahead of Wimbledon, Djokovic also arrives with significant ambitions of his own. The Serbian is considered one of the leading contenders for the title behind defending champion Jannik Sinner and could equal Federer's record of eight men's singles titles at the All England Club.
His preparation has been far from ideal after a shoulder injury forced him to miss most of the clay-court season. Djokovic returned at Roland Garros, where he was beaten in five sets by rising Brazilian João Fonseca in the third round, but has repeatedly stated that Wimbledon was always the tournament he targeted as the peak of his season.
The seven-time Wimbledon champion begins his campaign against China's Wu Yibing, who has worked his way back into the world's top 100 after struggling with injuries. A place in the latter stages could set up another meeting with Sinner, but before focusing on his own pursuit of history, Djokovic made it clear that Williams' comeback is a moment the entire sport should appreciate.
Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist
Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.
His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.
In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.
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