Serena Williams, 44, steps up surprise tennis return ahead of US Open as she confirms doubles date with sister Venus, 46

Serena Williams, 44, has confirmed her participation in the women’s doubles at the Cincinnati Open, marking a surprising return to competitive tennis following a recent injury. The announcement comes just days before the start of the event in Ohio, where the former world number one will partner with her older sister Venus Williams, 46. This marks the first time the duo will compete together since the 2022 US Open, and it follows a series of setbacks for Serena, including a knee injury sustained during her Wimbledon singles match. The Cincinnati Open, scheduled to take place in Mason, Ohio, has granted the Williams sisters a wild-card entry into the doubles draw. This decision came despite Serena’s inability to compete alongside Venus at Wimbledon due to the injury. The pair previously won 14 Grand Slam titles and three Olympic gold medals in doubles, showcasing their enduring partnership and success on the international stage. Serena’s return to competition began earlier this year with a limited schedule. She participated in three matches, all in doubles. Her first appearance was at the Queen’s Club in London, where she and Victoria Mboko advanced to the second round before withdrawing due to an MCL injury suffered by Mboko. Later, she competed in Berlin with Karolina Muchova, but fell in straight sets. Her most notable match came at Wimbledon, where she faced Maya Joint in the first round. During that match, Serena suffered a knee injury that ultimately sidelined her from competing in the doubles with Venus. In a heartfelt post on Instagram, Serena expressed her disappointment over having to withdraw from the doubles. “I’m heartbroken to have to withdraw from doubles,” she wrote. “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 but unfortunately my knee just isn’t ready to compete.” The post included a video showing Serena limping with a heavily bandaged right leg, accompanied by her daughter Olympia using a walking stick. There were also images of her undergoing medical treatment, with Serena noting the draining of fluid from her knee after the singles match. The injury has raised questions about whether Serena will be able to compete at the US Open, which is set to take place in New York later this month. Venus, meanwhile, has confirmed her participation in the mixed doubles at the US Open, partnering with Alexander Bublik. This adds to the significance of the Cincinnati Open as a potential stepping stone toward further appearances in the fall season. Serena’s decision to withdraw from the Wimbledon doubles drew a mixed response. Some supporters praised her determination to return to the sport, while others criticized her for potentially limiting opportunities for younger players. Despite these reactions, Serena has remained focused on her recovery and future plans. As the Cincinnati Open approaches, the Williams sisters’ return has generated considerable excitement among fans and media alike. Their history together on the court, combined with their continued presence in the sport at such an advanced age, underscores the unique legacy of the two athletes. With the US Open looming, the coming weeks will determine whether Serena can fully regain her form and continue her journey in professional tennis.