- Tennis icon Serena Williams is making her highly anticipated return to professional play at Wimbledon at age 44, competing in both singles and doubles. She is scheduled to play her first singles match since 2022 on Centre Court on Tuesday against 20-year-old Maya Joint of Australia.
- Legendary skier Lindsey Vonn, who made her own comeback at 41, offered a unique perspective on Williams' journey and revealed that Williams told her that she had played a role in inspiring her to return to tennis.
- Vonn, who was present to witness Williams' recent doubles victory at Queen's Club, added: "There is an increasing shift in what women can accomplish at later stages in their careers or life. I feel like we are in the same boat, where we don’t need to prove anything to anyone, but we still have the ability to compete at an elite level.”
- Both athletes share a philosophy of defying expectations and pursuing ambitious dreams, with Vonn stating Williams is the “GOAT no matter what happens”.
- Vonn offered a measured outlook on Williams' prospects. "It’s her first major singles tournament since retiring so I would expect for her to play well but not show all her cards yet," Vonn said. "I’m sure she can still win, but I wouldn’t put any expectations on her.”
IN FULL
