In brief
Serena Williams withdrew from her Wimbledon doubles event with older sister Venus after sustaining a knee injury during a match against Australian player Maya Joint. The 44‑year‑old champion, a 23‑time Grand Slam singles winner, posted a heartfelt Instagram message expressing heartbreak at missing the opportunity to reunite as a six‑time doubles champion. Wimbledon officials confirmed she was unfit to play, cutting short her long‑anticipated comeback. The decision underscores the physical challenges athletes face even in senior years. More updates will follow as medical reports come out.
Serena Williams has pulled out of her planned Wimbledon doubles appearance with older sister Venus because of a knee injury.
The American pair, who are six‑time doubles champions at the All England Club, were set to reunite on a Grand Slam court for the first time since 2022 later on Saturday.
However, 44‑year‑old Serena Williams is not fit enough to play after picking up a knee problem during her defeat by Australia’s Maya Freshwater on Tuesday.
The 23‑time Grand Slam singles champion did not speak to the media following the match, with Wimbledon organisers saying she was “not able to undertake” her duties.
“I’m heartbroken to have to withdraw from doubles,” said Serena in a post on Instagram.
“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.”
More to follow.
