Serena Williams‘ dream of a fairytale return to Wimbledon came to an end on Tuesday as Australia’s Maya Joint defeated the seven-time champion 6-3, 6-7 (8-6), and 6-3 in the American legend’s first singles match at the All England Club in four years.
The 44-year-old, who came out of retirement earlier this month, captivated the tennis world with her surprise comeback but was unable to add another memorable chapter to her illustrious career.
Williams became the second-oldest woman to compete in the Wimbledon singles draw during the Open era, behind only Martina Navratilova, who reached the second round at the age of 47 in 2004.
Despite showing flashes of the brilliance that made her one of the sport’s greatest players, Williams ultimately fell to an inspired Joint after a gripping contest that lasted two hours and 22 minutes on Centre Court.
“I never expected to be here,” Williams said in a brief statement after declining her post-match media duties.
