LONDON - The tennis world is buzzing. American legend Serena Williams, a 23-time Grand Slam champion, makes her highly anticipated return to singles competition at Wimbledon today as a wildcard entrant.
The 44-year-old last played a competitive singles match at the 2022 U.S. Open. Her comeback at the All England Club has electrified the tournament.
"She's the best player there's ever been," said Lorraine, a fan from Ireland. "Everybody is so excited to see Serena back."
Williams will face 20-year-old Australian Maya Joint in a marquee first-round match on Centre Court. The meeting fulfills a lifelong dream for Joint.
"It's an honour," Joint said. "I always dreamed about playing Serena Williams. I have so much respect for her; she was one of my idols growing up."
Not all fans are confident in the outcome. "Obviously a big risk is her age," said Daniel, a fan from south London. "But she's got such a powerful game... I think she can still hit a few players off the court."
Williams, who won her seventh and last Wimbledon singles title in 2013, is also scheduled to play doubles with her sister, Venus.