Serena Williams Returns to Wimbledon Singles, Withdraws from Doubles Due to Injury

Serena Williams made an unexpected comeback in singles at Wimbledon. She faced Maya Joint in the opening round but lost the match. During the game, she sustained a knee injury. Despite the setback, Williams hoped to continue playing doubles with her older sister, Venus Williams.

Ultimately, she had to withdraw from doubles. Expressing her disappointment on Instagram, Williams said, “I’m heartbroken to have to withdraw from doubles. Coming back to compete again has been a gift, and the opportunity to play alongside @venuswilliams 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.”

Williams shared pictures showing syringes used to drain fluid from her knee. This illustrated the extent of her injury and made clear her inability to compete with Venus in doubles.

Two weeks later, Williams showed a more positive outlook by posting a TikTok video of her dancing, with a caption stating, “Looks like my knee is getting better. Finally!”

During the summer, many speculated that Williams aimed to use the grass season as preparation for the US Open. Although she last played at the 2022 US Open, she decided to take an extended break from tennis.

Williams restarted her illustrious career by partnering with Victoria Mboko at the HSBC Championships in London’s Queen’s Club in June. Following that, she competed in doubles with Karolina Muchova at the Berlin Tennis Open.

The 2026 US Open draw remains uncertain and won’t be revealed for several weeks. However, it appears that her knee injury might not be the factor influencing her participation.