LONDON - Serena Williams' return to singles at Wimbledon on Tuesday will deliver guaranteed sporting theatre, according to former British number one Johanna Konta.
The 44-year-old American great, a seven-time singles champion at the All England Club, faces Australia's Maya Joint on Centre Court after receiving a tournament wildcard.
Konta, now a commentator for Eurosport, told Reuters that Williams is a performer who lives for the big stage. She expects Williams' legendary ball-striking and serve to remain sharp, but says her movement against a new generation of big hitters will be the key indicator of her form.
Williams, who made her Wimbledon debut in 1998 and won her last singles title there a decade ago, is two victories away from reaching 100 singles match wins at Wimbledon. She last competed in singles at the 2022 US Open before taking a hiatus from the sport.
Konta noted that top seeds would likely have felt relief at not being drawn against Williams in the first round, as her aura creates unique pressure. Williams lost in the first round at Wimbledon in 2022 and last won a singles match there in 2019.