Serena Williams' Wimbledon singles comeback ended in a first-round loss to Maya Joint, 6-3, 6-7 (6), 6-3, after a two hours and 22 minutes battle on Centre Court. The 44-year-old showed flashes of her former brilliance with seven aces and serves exceeding 120 miles per hour, but ultimately fell short in her first major singles match since 2022.

Williams received a wild card after re-entering the sport this month, following her return to competitive tennis at Queen's Club in doubles. Playing under the roof with daughter Olympia watching, she raised her level in the second set and celebrated the tiebreak win with a clenched fist. Despite the loss, Williams emphasized she has nothing to prove after winning 23 majors.

Joint, a two-time WTA champion struggling this season, called the victory surreal. The 20-year-old had barely slept before the match but managed to overcome nerves against her idol. She'll face No. 29 seed Alexanda Eala in the second round.

Williams isn't finished at the All England Club - she'll team with sister Venus in doubles, where they've captured 14 major titles together. Defending champion Iga Swiatek and No. 2 seed Elena Rybakina also advanced Tuesday.