Serena Williams' Wimbledon comeback fell short as she lost a gripping three-set match to Maya Joint on Tuesday. The 44-year-old showed flashes of her former brilliance but ultimately succumbed 6-3 6-7 (6-8) 6-3 in what marked her first singles appearance at the All England Club since 2022.

Williams saved a match point in the second set with a blistering forehand winner and 120mph serve, forcing a decider that electrified Centre Court. However, the physical demands of extended rallies appeared to catch up with her during the final set. The American struggled with baseline movement early, unable to chase down Joint's exceptional down-the-line winners.

This defeat ends Williams' singles return after she previously said she was 'evolving' away from tennis. The 23-time Grand Slam singles champion made her competitive comeback in doubles earlier this month alongside Victoria Mboko. Her statement after the match captured her appreciation: 'It was really great to be back at Wimbledon. I never expected to be here. The atmosphere was amazing.'

Joint, meanwhile, became the youngest player to defeat Williams at Wimbledon and secured her first-ever main draw victory at the tournament. The 20-year-old's triumph over a legend overshadowed her admission that she was overwhelmed by the occasion.