Maya Joint defeated Serena Williams 6-3, 6-7(6), 6-3 in the Wimbledon first round on Centre Court. The 20-year-old Australian overcame nerves to end an 11-match losing streak.
The match featured strong play from both competitors. Joint broke serve in the first set to take a 6-3 lead. Serena fought back in the second set, saving break points before winning the tiebreak 8-6.
Joint regained control in the deciding set. She broke back after Serena took an early lead and closed out the match with four aces. Joint finished with 40 winners.
After the victory Joint said she was at a loss for words. She noted poor sleep and nerves before the match, adding that her support team helped her stay focused.
Joint will next face Alexandra Eala in the second round. Serena Williams is scheduled to compete in doubles with her sister Venus on Thursday.
