Djokovic: Serena Williams training harder than in her prime ahead of Wimbledon singles comeback

Djokovic's praise and gym observations

Novak Djokovic, the 24-time Grand Slam champion, told reporters at the All England Club that he has seen Serena Williams training with unusual intensity ahead of her Wimbledon return. The 44-year-old American has not played a competitive singles match since the 2022 US Open.

I see her in the gym more than I have, I think, seen her when she was at her prime. It tells me that she really wants this to work out the best way possible.

Djokovic said he bumped into Williams this week and conveyed his admiration. He described her effort as "admirable" and noted that all eyes will be on her comeback.

A four-year absence and a wildcard return

Williams, a seven-time Wimbledon singles champion and 23-time major winner, enters the tournament on a wildcard. She will face world No. 53 Maya Joint of Australia in the first round on Tuesday. Williams is also scheduled to play doubles alongside her sister Venus, having already tested the comeback waters in doubles at Queen's.

For her to come back after years of being absent from the tour, two children later, and to give so much effort, not just for her own satisfaction or coming back on the tour, but also to give all of us a pleasure of seeing her back on the court — in singles as well as doubles — is remarkable.

Djokovic's own Wimbledon chase

Djokovic, 39, will open against China's Wu Yibing on Monday aiming for a record-extending 25th Grand Slam title and an eighth Wimbledon crown that would tie Roger Federer. The Serbian admitted that his French Open ended early (third-round loss to João Fonseca) but said grass suits his body better.

I always loved playing on grass. I have a very good history here at Wimbledon. That gives me a higher dose of confidence coming into the tournament.

Wider reaction and a legendary legacy

Fellow American Ben Shelton echoed the praise, calling Williams "one of the biggest icons in sports history, not just tennis." Djokovic stressed that the Williams sisters transcended tennis through business, fashion, and their impact on youth. He said he remains baffled by how Serena and Venus managed the psychological challenge of facing each other on the sport's biggest stages.

I told her that whatever happens, what she's doing is truly inspirational for me personally, and I'm sure for millions around the world.