Williams sisters to return to doubles in Cincinnati
Serena Williams and Venus Williams are set to return to the doubles court together at the Cincinnati Open after receiving a wild card into the draw. The appearance would mark their first doubles partnership since the 2022 US Open. Cincinnati, which begins on 11 August, will provide the legendary American pair with a high-profile opportunity ahead of the season’s final Grand Slam. Venus, 46, has also been awarded a singles wild card for the tournament.
The sisters have built one of the most successful doubles partnerships in tennis history. Together, they have captured 14 major women’s doubles titles, including six Wimbledon crowns. Their achievements also include three Olympic gold medals, underlining their dominance on the sport’s biggest stages. Their combination of power, athleticism and experience has made them one of the most celebrated teams in modern tennis.
First doubles match together since 2022
Serena and Venus last competed as a doubles team at the 2022 US Open in New York. On that occasion, they were beaten by Czech players Lucie Hradecka and Linda Noskova in the opening round. The match came during Serena’s farewell appearance at the tournament, where she also made a memorable run in the singles draw. Their Cincinnati return will therefore carry added significance for fans eager to see the sisters reunited in competition.
The pair had been expected to play doubles at Wimbledon last month, but withdrew from the draw after Serena dealt with a knee injury. Serena, 44, had made her return to Grand Slam singles competition after four years away from the major stage. However, her Wimbledon campaign ended in the first round following a loss to Australian rising player Maya Joint. The Cincinnati event could offer Serena a chance to build match sharpness in a familiar partnership.
US Open looms large
The Cincinnati Open will be an important stop in the build-up to the US Open, which begins on 31 August in New York. Venus and Serena have both enjoyed major success at Flushing Meadows, both individually and together. Their return to doubles action is likely to generate strong interest, particularly given their history at the tournament and their enduring global popularity. Whether Cincinnati leads to another doubles appearance at the US Open will be one of the key storylines to watch during the North American hard-court swing.