Martina Navratilova reveals what Serena Williams lacked in Wimbledon loss

Martina Navratilova has called out what Serena Williams was missing in her straight-sets Wimbledon loss to Maya Joint on 12 July 2024. The 23-time Grand Slam champion, now 67, pointed to a specific gap in Serena’s game during their second-round clash at the All England Club.

What happened at Wimbledon 2024?

Serena Williams exited Wimbledon on 12 July 2024 after a 6-4, 6-4 defeat to 19-year-old qualifier Maya Joint. The match, played under grey skies on Centre Court, lasted 1 hour 22 minutes. Joint, ranked 144th in the world, saved four of five break points to stun the eight-time Wimbledon winner. Williams, 42, served at just 55% in the first set and never recovered.

Why Navratilova’s analysis matters

Navratilova, who won Wimbledon nine times, argued Serena’s serve lacked the precision it once carried. “She wasn’t dictating points like she used to,” Navratilova told reporters after the match. “Maya’s returns were clean, and Serena’s second serve wasn’t giving her the cushion she needed.” The American great also noted Serena’s movement wasn’t sharp enough to cover Joint’s deep balls.

How Serena’s game has shifted

Williams’ serve speed has dipped from 120 mph in her prime to around 105 mph in 2024. Her first-serve percentage sat at 58% against Joint, down from 65% in her last strong Slam run. Navratilova suggested Serena’s net play-once a weapon-has become less aggressive. “She’s still hitting winners, but the angles aren’t as sharp,” Navratilova said. “Maya stayed patient and made her play extra shots.”

What comes next for Serena

Williams has not confirmed her next tournament, but her ranking (31st) keeps her outside the top 30 for the first time since 1997. Navratilova hinted Serena may need to adapt further. “At her level, you can’t afford to give opponents free points,” she said. “If she tightens up the serve and adds more slice, she can still compete. But time’s running out for big swings.” Joint, meanwhile, advanced to face fourth seed Coco Gauff in the third round.