Djokovic praises Williams ahead of Wimbledon return
Novak Djokovic has lavished praise upon Serena Williams ahead of her much-anticipated return to the All England Club, describing the American legend’s comeback as both “inspirational” and “epic,” reports BritPanorama.
Speaking at Wimbledon on Saturday, the Serbian champion revealed he had personally conveyed his admiration to Williams. “First and foremost, what she’s doing is inspirational and it’s epic. That’s what I told her,” Djokovic remarked.
The 39-year-old added that Williams’ journey has resonated deeply with him and countless others worldwide. He detailed how he observed her training routines, noting, “I see her in the gym more than I have seen her when she was at her prime.” This intensity, Djokovic suggested, illustrates the 44-year-old’s genuine determination to succeed.
Reflecting on her preparation, he stated, “It tells me that she really wants this to work out the best way possible. It’s admirable, honestly, the effort she’s putting in.” Djokovic expressed hope that Williams would savour the experience, adding, “I just hope that she will enjoy because she really deserves [to].”
Williams will step onto the grass courts of SW19 on Tuesday when she takes on Australian world number 53 Maya Joint in the opening round of the singles competition. The 44-year-old mother of two received a wild card entry for the tournament, marking her first appearance at the Championships since 2022.
Her return extends beyond singles, as she will also compete alongside elder sister Venus, aged 46, in the women’s doubles draw. The siblings have been paired against Camila Osorio and Solana Sierra in their first-round encounter. Williams boasts a record of 23 women’s major singles titles from the Open era.
Djokovic himself harbours considerable ambitions at this year’s Championships, seeking an eighth Wimbledon crown that would secure a record-breaking 25th Grand Slam triumph. The Serbian veteran opens his campaign against China’s Wu Yibing on Monday.
Fellow competitors have echoed Djokovic’s enthusiasm for Williams’ return. American fourth seed Ben Shelton described watching the 44-year-old compete as “insanely impressive,” calling her “one of the biggest icons in sports history, not just tennis.” Women’s top seed Aryna Sabalenka welcomed the attention Williams brings to the sport, asserting, “She’s bringing more eyes on tennis. It’s a good thing for tennis. I’m really excited to see her play.”
In a landscape where the sport is often dominated by youthful aspirations, Williams’ return serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring legacy she continues to forge, captivating both fans and peers alike.
