Maya Joint has been one of the names of the day at Wimbledon 2026. The Australian tennis player had the pressure of facing Serena Williams in the return of the GOAT of women's tennis to the circuit, and she managed to overcome all moments of tension to prevail in 3 sets and spoil her return. Additionally, the post-match press conference described the aura that the American tennis player exudes.
Joint praised the level at which Williams returned, but also acknowledged that she had barely watched any of her old matches. However, for the first time in her career, she revealed that she was nervous several days before, something that affected her at certain moments during the match. She eventually managed to win and fulfill a dream, but her testimony about what it means to stand in front of Serena explains the greatness of the American.
Joint praises Serena Williams' level in her comeback
Feelings after the match
I feel pretty good. I am very happy with my performance today, and with simply being able to win a match, even though this year has been quite challenging. It has been a tough year, especially in terms of results. In my recent matches, I have given my best, and even though I didn't win much, I still had the confidence that I could win. When you play against Serena, you have nothing to lose. It's logical for people to play their best match against her.
Serena Williams' level
Truth be told, I didn't know what to expect. I came in expecting that she would play her best match, the one she played when she was at her peak, because you have to prepare for the toughest match possible. I think she played very well. I haven't seen many of her matches.
Aura of her opponent
It's hard to explain. It just seems like she is much better overall than you as a person (smiling). I don't know. It's intimidating to have to play a match against someone who has achieved so much in her career.

Atmosphere in the match against Serena
The crowd was more or less as expected. You know, a packed and very noisy court. But they also cheered me on a lot, which I didn't think they would do that much. It was a pleasant surprise, but the atmosphere was incredible. I can't remember the last time I played on such a full court, so it was amazing. Stepping onto the court with Serena was something I never thought I would do. The truth is that I haven't fully processed it yet.
Joint analyzes Serena Williams' presence on the court
I saw her before going out on court, and that was nice. But yes, when we were in that hallway before heading out to the Centre Court, it was the most incredible moment of my life. Seeing all the greats and legends do that, and that I could do it too, was insane.
Pressure of playing in this atmosphere
I was quite nervous. I don't think I was completely relaxed, but I had a good start, which helped me, and I think I got a little tense when I was close to winning. But yes, I played my best tennis when I needed it most, which was good.
Trouble sleeping before the match and nerves
Usually, I don't have trouble sleeping, but this was a special circumstance. I was seeking my first victory at Wimbledon, a victory in general. I was playing against Serena on Centre Court. I had a lot on my mind because I wanted to do well, and I was nervous about what would happen. This time was definitely the most extreme in terms of nerves. I have gotten nervous before matches before, but usually I only get nervous right before stepping onto the court, not for four days before knowing when I'm going to play against her.
Next match against Eala
I am surprised that we haven't faced each other again since our match a year ago. We have played in almost all the same tournaments. The last time we played in Eastbourne, we had an incredible and epic match. I expect an equally exciting match this time, and yes, I am very excited. I think it's going to be a lot of fun.
Cette actualité est une traduction automatique. Vous pouvez lire la nouvelle originale Joint describe el aura de Serena tras eliminarla de Wimbledon

