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Serena Williams' anticipated return to Grand Slam doubles alongside her sister Venus Williams is in doubt after the tennis legend suffered a knee injury during her Wimbledon singles comeback.
The Williams sisters, who have won six women's doubles titles at Wimbledon, are scheduled to reunite in a Grand Slam doubles event for the first time since 2022. Their match is set to take place on Friday, but Serena's fitness has become a major concern.
The 44 year old injured her right knee during Tuesday's three set defeat to Australia's Maya Joint. The problem reportedly caused swelling, raising uncertainty over whether she will be able to compete later in the tournament.
Following the match, Serena did not attend her scheduled media commitments. Wimbledon officials later confirmed she had been excused from those obligations for medical reasons.
Her agent, Jill Smoller, explained that Serena tweaked her right knee near the end of the opening set and was released from media duties by Wimbledon and WTA medical staff. Smoller added that the American left the venue without assistance and is doing everything possible to recover in time for Friday's doubles match.
Serena later addressed fans through Instagram, saying she was grateful for the opportunity to return to Wimbledon and thankful that her daughters were able to watch her pursue a sport she still loves.
She acknowledged suffering the knee injury during the first set but stressed that she is working hard to be ready for doubles. Serena also congratulated Maya Joint on her victory and thanked spectators for the warm reception she received throughout her return.
Missing the doubles competition would be a disappointing outcome after one of the most anticipated comebacks at this year's Championships.
The seven time Wimbledon singles champion returned to Centre Court after an absence of 1,462 days, having last competed there before stepping away from professional tennis. Although she believed the 2022 US Open might be her final tournament, Serena never officially described herself as retired, instead saying she was evolving away from the sport.
Against the 20 year old Joint, Serena showed flashes of the brilliance that helped her win 23 Grand Slam singles titles. She pushed her younger opponent to the limit before eventually losing 6 to 3, 6 to 7, 6 to 3.
Reports suggest Serena suffered the injury before the deciding set and chose to continue playing despite medical advice to stop. Although she did not receive treatment during the match, she appeared slower between points and less confident in her movement.
Medical staff reportedly offered Serena crutches after the contest, but she declined them. While she has not ruled herself out of Friday's doubles match, her participation alongside Venus remains uncertain.
