44‑year‑old Serena Williams will step onto Centre Court next week, marking her first Wimbledon singles appearance since 2022. The 23‑time Grand Slam champion returns after a four‑year hiatus and a brief doubles stint at Queen’s, insisting she has “nothing to prove.” Approaching her 45th birthday, she becomes the oldest woman in the draw and hopes to inspire a new generation.

Former world No.1 Lindsay Davenport argues Williams believes she can impact the tour immediately, citing her “clean ball striking” and powerful serve that thrives on grass. Yet the physical demands of Wimbledon—quick, low bounces and relentless movement—favor players a decade younger, such as world No.1 Aryna Sabalenka (28) and defending champion Iga Świątek (25) in the early rounds.

At 44, Williams faces a steep climb; she has not contested a singles match since the 2022 US Open and only two doubles matches at Queen’s serve as preparation. Analysts note her serve could earn quick points against even inexperienced opponents, but stamina and movement will be tested. Regardless of results, her presence adds a historic narrative to this year’s Wimbledon for fans.