Image: BBC Sport
Serena Williams’ Wimbledon comeback hit a snag just hours before the tournament began when she pulled out of her planned doubles appearance with older sister Venus due to a knee injury.
The seven-time Wimbledon champion had announced her retirement from tennis after the Australian Open in 2022, but had hinted at possible returns to the court. Her planned doubles match with Venus was set to take place on Centre Court on Wednesday, a highly anticipated event that would have marked the first time the sisters had competed together at Wimbledon since 2014.
The injury is a major setback for Williams, who had made a successful return to singles competition at the 2022 Wimbledon tournament, ultimately finishing with a bronze medal. It’s also a significant blow to the Williams sisters, who have dominated women’s doubles tennis throughout their careers, with 14 Grand Slam titles between them.
Venus Williams expressed her support for her sister in a statement, saying, “I’m so sorry to hear that Serena won’t be able to compete with me in doubles. I know how much this tournament means to both of us, and I’m thinking of her and sending all my love.” Despite the injury, the Williams sisters are expected to still compete in their respective singles matches, with Venus set to face 21-year-old Polish player Alicja Rosolska in the first round.
As for what happens next, the All England Lawn Tennis Club (AELTC) has not yet announced a replacement doubles partner for Williams. The sisters had been expected to face the Japanese duo of Shuko Aoyama and Ena Shibahara in the first round. While Williams’ withdrawal is a significant blow to the tournament, the AELTC has a comprehensive plan in place to manage unexpected vacancies.
Serena Williams had won 23 Grand Slam singles titles, a record she’s unlikely to be matched any time soon. Her injury at Wimbledon raises concerns about her future in the sport, but her legacy as one of the greatest tennis players of all time remains unchallenged.
The AELTC has confirmed that Serena Williams will still compete in her singles match, which is scheduled to take place on Thursday.
This is a major setback for Serena Williams, but it’s also a testament to her resilience and determination.
The Williams sisters have been a dominant force in women’s doubles tennis for over two decades, with 14 Grand Slam titles between them.
Serena Williams is expected to face a tough opponent in the first round of the singles tournament.
The AELTC has not yet announced a replacement doubles partner for Serena Williams.
Image: BBC Sport
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