Wimbledon: Serena Williams withdraws from doubles return with sister Venus due to injury
London, July 4
44-year-old tennis icon Serena Williams announced that she will be withdrawing from her much-anticipated Wimbledon doubles competition return with her sister Venus Williams due to knee issues.
The official Instagram handle of Wimbledon made the announcement. Serena suffered a defeat to Maya Joint in her much-anticipated Wimbledon singles' return after a four-year absence, following an epic Centre Court battle.
The 23-time Grand Slam champion, who recently announced her comeback at the age of 44, showed moments of brilliance against the 20-year-old Australian and saved a match point in the second set to force a decider. However, she eventually ran out of steam, going down 6-3, 6-7 (6-8), 6-3. In her Instagram post reflecting on the loss and her return, she had revealed tweaking her knee during the match.
That injury seems to have taken its toll, as Serena's announcement read, "I am heartbroken to have to withdraw from doubles.
"Coming back to compete again has been a gift, and the opportunity to play alongside Venus once more meant the world to me. I did everything I could to be ready, but unfortunately my knee just isn't ready to compete," she said.
The wildcard entry in singles competition marked Williams' first appearance in the women's singles draw at Wimbledon in four years and came shortly after she had already secured a return to the Championships through a doubles wildcard alongside her sister, Venus Williams.
The 44-year-old, regarded as one of the greatest players in tennis history, stepped away from professional tennis following the 2022 US Open. However, she returned to competitive action earlier in June at Queen's Club, where she partnered rising star Victoria Mboko in doubles competition.
The pair won their opening-round match, but Mboko was later forced to withdraw from the tournament because of injury. The injury will also prevent the Canadian youngster from participating in Wimbledon.
Meanwhile, Venus Williams, who made her comeback to the tour last July after a 16-month break, is currently ranked No. 119 in doubles. Her best result since returning came at last year's US Open, where she reached the quarterfinals partnering Leylah Fernandez.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Serena and Venus together on grass is a sight every tennis lover longs for. But health comes first. She gave it her all in singles, pushing a young star to three sets. That's true champion spirit. Get well soon, legend!
As someone who grew up watching the Williams sisters dominate, this withdrawal is tough. But 44 is no age for professional tennis, especially with knees. She should consider if this is worth it for her long-term health.
The match against Maya Joint was epic! Serena showed flashes of her old magic. But injuries at this age... sadly inevitable. Venus also hasn't been consistent. Their legacy is already untouchable though. 🇮🇳 tennis fans salute you, Serena!
It's a shame for Wimbledon and for tennis. The Williams sisters doubles was the main attraction for many. But let's be real - at 44, pushing a 20-year-old to a decider was already a miracle. Hope she doesn't push too hard.
Serena's return was never going to be easy after four years. The dedication to try at 44 is something we can all learn from. But I hope she listens to her body. Some things are more important than tennis. Get well soon, GOAT! 🎾
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