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Djokovic defends Williams, urges critics to cool off after Wimbledon loss

ESPN • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 2, 2026, 8:48 PM

Last updated Jul 2, 2026

Djokovic defends Williams, urges critics to cool off after Wimbledon loss

Summary

Novak Djokovic expressed support for Serena Williams following her recent loss in singles at Wimbledon this week. Djokovic called on critics to temper their judgments, emphasizing that players need time to adjust after returning to competition. Williams, who is making her way back into the sport, faced scrutiny after the defeat. The conversation around her performance indicates a broader issue regarding the expectations placed on returning players.

Source Links

ESPN

Status Watch

•Serena Williams lost her singles return at Wimbledon earlier this week.
•Novak Djokovic urged people to judge her performance more leniently.
•Criticism of Williams has intensified following her recent match.
•Williams is in the process of adjusting to competitive play after a hiatus.

Latest Updates

9:33 PMESPN — 'Cool off' on criticism of Serena, says Djokovic

What they're saying

"
Men's tennis star Novak Djokovic says people need to "cool off a little bit" on their judgement and criticism of Serena Williams, who lost her return to singles play at Wimbledon earlier this week.
— ESPN

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