Aryna Sabalenka, the top-ranked player on the WTA Tour, is facing a challenge as Serena Williams returns to tennis. On June 24, 2026, Williams accepted a wildcard to play doubles with her sister Venus at Wimbledon, and now she's entering the singles draw.

What's at Stake for Aryna Sabalenka?

Sabalenka has been the top-ranked player for more than 85 consecutive weeks, but her No. 1 ranking is in jeopardy. She failed to return to the French Open finals and has semifinal points to defend at Wimbledon.

Sabalenka welcomed the news about Serena's return to doubles and possibly singles at Wimbledon, saying "Yeah, I mean, that's fun, that's cool. She has a really cool personality. She's fun, and she's a legend."

How Does Serena's Return Affect Sabalenka's Legacy?

Serena's return to tennis is a win-win for her, as she has little to lose. If she gets bounced in the first round, her status doesn't change, but if she advances to the second week, it elevates her standing and diminishes Sabalenka's.

Aryna Sabalenka turned 28 in May, and in an era where women are playing professional tennis in their late 30s and returning from maternity leave, her career is far from over. However, with Serena back in the mix, comparisons and questions are coming.

What Are the Implications for Women's Tennis?

Serena's 23 Major titles are the most by any female player in the Open Era, while Sabalenka has four, all on hard courts. By Spring 2009, Serena had won 9 Grand Slam singles titles, including wins on every surface.

Sabalenka has reached the final of every Major except Wimbledon, and in 2025, she was the first woman to defend her U.S. Open title since Serena in 2014. Serena is the last woman to defend her title at Wimbledon, in 2015 and 2016.

The consecutive weeks spent at No. 1 by Serena and Sabalenka are also notable, with Serena and Steffi Graf tied at 186 for most consecutive weeks at No. 1. Sabalenka passed Martina Hingis in April to climb to the Top 10 of consecutive weeks at No. 1 list.

As the tennis world watches Serena's return, Aryna Sabalenka's dominance will be put to the test. With her No. 1 ranking in jeopardy, Sabalenka must perform well at Wimbledon to maintain her position at the top of the WTA Tour.