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Jul 01, 2026

Reason for Serena Williams snubbing Wimbledon media revealed after backlash

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Reason for Serena Williams snubbing Wimbledon media revealed after backlash

By Jenna Lemoncelli Published July 1, 2026, 9:40 a.m. ET

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Serena Williams did not participate in a post-match press conference after her first-round loss at Wimbledon on Tuesday in her singles return, and some let her have it on social media.

The tournament said in a statement that Williams “unfortunately will not be able to undertake media this evening” — and deferred to quotes from the seven-time Wimbledon champ after her first Grand Slam match in four years.

“It was really great to be back at Wimbledon,” Williams’ statement said. “I never expected to be here.

Serena Williams in action in the first round against Australia's Maya Joint at Wimbledon on June 30, 2026. 3
Serena Williams in action in the first round against Australia’s Maya Joint at Wimbledon on June 30, 2026. Best Image / BACKGRID

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“The atmosphere was amazing. Walking out was amazing. I definitely relished it and missed it and enjoyed the moment more than anything.”

Her agent, Jill Smoller, later explained that Williams was excused from media obligations due to injury.

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