Serena Williams did not attend a post-match press conference following her first-round singles loss at Wimbledon on Tuesday, an absence that drew criticism on social media. However, her agent later clarified that the decision was due to a knee injury sustained during the match.
The tournament initially stated that Williams "unfortunately will not be able to undertake media this evening," deferring to comments she made after her first Grand Slam match in four years. Williams had expressed her gratitude for being back at Wimbledon, noting the amazing atmosphere and her enjoyment of the moment.
Williams' agent, Jill Smoller, explained to The Times that the tennis star "tweaked her knee at the end of the first set and was therefore excused from her media obligations by the Wimbledon and WTA medical teams." Smoller added that Williams left the venue unaided and was focused on recovery for her scheduled doubles match with her sister, Venus.
Reports indicated that Williams suffered a right knee injury during her comeback singles match. The severity of the injury has cast doubt on her participation in the upcoming doubles competition. Despite crutches reportedly being brought to her locker room, Williams was seen leaving the All England Club unassisted. She received a standing ovation from the crowd after her three-set defeat to 20-year-old Australian Maya Joint.
The decision to skip the press conference, particularly after receiving a wildcard entry into the tournament, drew criticism from some in the tennis media. Tennis writer Pav Gill commented on X that missing the mandatory conference was a "bad PR move," while journalist Simon Cambers expressed disappointment, stating that it was "not on" after being granted a wildcard. Williams had participated in a press conference prior to the tournament on Sunday.