Seven-time Wimbledon champion Serena Williams confirmed she initially hesitated to accept a wildcard for this year's singles draw but is now focused on savoring her return to the All England Club.
The 44-year-old American opens play on Centre Court Tuesday against Australia's Maya Joint. It marks her first appearance at Wimbledon since a first-round exit in 2022, the year she stepped away from the sport.
"I feel like I'm really going to enjoy being out there," Williams told reporters in London. She emphasized her perspective has shifted drastically. "My expectations are definitely different for the first time in my career."
Williams, a 23-time Grand Slam winner, returned to competitive tennis earlier this month. She will also compete in the doubles draw alongside her sister Venus. Her first-round singles opponent, the 20-year-old Joint, is ranked 53rd and holds two WTA titles.
Addressing the message of her comeback, the mother of two spoke about pursuing ambition. "You have to believe in yourself and go for any dream, no matter how wild it may be," she said.
The tournament runs from June 29 to July 12.