Serena Williams has avoided a $50,000 fine despite not attending her mandatory post-match press conference after her first-round defeat at Wimbledon on Tuesday. The 44-year-old American, who accepted a wildcard invitation for her first professional singles match since the 2022 US Open, lost 3-6, 7-6, 6-3 to Australia's Maya Joint, ranked World No. 87.
Williams skips media duties after emotional return
Williams, a seven-time Wimbledon champion, received a standing ovation as she left Centre Court but opted to skip her post-match media obligations. In a statement, Wimbledon said: 'Unfortunately Serena Williams will not be able to undertake media this evening.' Instead, the tournament provided a brief set of quotes from Williams: 'It was really great to be back at Wimbledon. I never expected to be here. The atmosphere was amazing. Walking out was amazing. I definitely relished it and missed it and enjoyed the moment more than anything.'
Grand Slam rules allow fines up to $50,000
The Grand Slam Rulebook requires players to attend post-match media 'unless unable to appear on reasonable grounds (for instance illness or injury).' It adds: 'If a player is unable to appear, the appropriate level of direct communication is requested. Violation of this Section shall subject a player to a fine up to $50,000.' Despite these rules, the All England Club decided not to fine Williams, deeming her decision 'reasonable' and noting she satisfied some obligations by providing a quote.
Williams to address media before doubles match
Williams is expected to speak to the media before her doubles match with sister Venus on Thursday against Solana Sierra and Camila Osorio. The match could mark the end of Williams' singles career at Wimbledon.
Joint reflects on stunning victory
Speaking on court after the match, Joint said: 'I really don't know what to say right now. I don't know what just happened, to be honest. I didn't get much sleep last night, I was up until 2am just thinking about it. Walking out, I forgot the warm-up, I don't know what happened. My legs weren't moving. I really don't know how I got a pretty good start in the match.' She added: 'She has so much aura, she is such a legend. This court has had so many huge names that have played in it. I have been dreaming about this since I was a little kid so this is pretty crazy.' Joint will face 29th seed Alexandra Eala in the second round.
