Serena Williams' first-round loss in Wimbledon return delivers record ratings for ESPN

Serena Williams' first-round return to Wimbledon singles competition — her first since 2022 — drew an average of 1.8 million viewers on ESPN, peaking at 2.1 million, making it the network's most-watched first round ever at Wimbledon. The 44-year-old, 23-time Grand Slam champion lost in three sets to 20-year-old Maya Joint, ending her run in the singles draw. The match aired on Friday, July 3, 2026.