Important news shook the tennis world this Sunday (21) with the confirmation of the All England Club: Serena Williams, aged 44, received the last special invitation (wild card) to the women’s singles main draw of the prestigious Wimbledon tournament. The iconic tennis player was already guaranteed her presence in the doubles competition, where she would play alongside her sister, Venus Williams. The traditional English championship will kick off on June 29, in the British capital.
Champion Serena Williams’ last appearance in singles competition at Wimbledon dates back to the 2022 season. On that occasion, she also entered the tournament by invitation and was unfortunately beaten in the opening round by French tennis player Harmony Tan.
Following the 2022 US Open, the multi-time champion announced that she would take a break from her professional tennis career. However, it is important to highlight that she never officially confirmed her complete retirement from the circuit. Aiming to prepare for the current grass season, Serena participated in doubles tournaments, attending the Queen’s Club, in London, and also at the event held in Berlin, Germany.
Serena Williams’ Wimbledon journey began in 1998, building an impressive trajectory. Throughout her career, she has accumulated a total of 23 Grand Slam singles trophies, a remarkable feat. Specifically in the legendary British tournament, the tennis player lifted the singles trophy seven times, in the 2002, 2003, 2009, 2010, 2012, 2015 and 2016 editions. In addition, she has won six more titles in the doubles category in the same event.
The regulations for granting invitations by the organization are quite specific. These “wild cards” are usually awarded to tennis players who, for some reason, do not reach the necessary score in the WTA rankings to guarantee a direct place in the main draw. Eligible categories include local athletes, players who are returning after a period of injury, or athletes who already have an established history of titles in the sport, justifying the criteria for Serena.
Serena Williams is widely recognized as one of the greatest tennis players of all time, with a career full of glory. The tennis player has 23 Grand Slams, consolidating her legacy in world sport.