Williams sisters fall in Cincinnati Open doubles return after four-year absence
The pair, who received wildcard entries, lost 2-6, 6-1, 10-8 in their first competitive doubles appearance since the 2022 US Open.
Serena and Venus Williams have suffered a defeat in their first doubles match together in four years, losing to Marta Kostyuk and Peyton Stearns at the Cincinnati Open. The sisters, who were granted wildcard entries into the tournament, were eliminated 2-6, 6-1, 10-8 in a contest that featured a dramatic comeback attempt in the final set.
The partnership had originally been scheduled for Wimbledon but was delayed after Serena Williams sustained a knee injury during her singles campaign, which ended in a defeat to Maya Joint. The 44-year-old has since returned to the tour, though her previous attempt at a comeback in July was curtailed by the injury. This Cincinnati appearance marks the sisters' first competitive pairing since the 2022 US Open, which served as Serena’s final tournament before her initial retirement.
In a match that saw the Williams sisters fight back from a 6-0 deficit in the 10-point tie-break, the decisive moment arrived when Venus Williams committed a double fault while attempting to save a match point. The loss ended their run in the first round of the women’s doubles draw.
Following the match, Serena Williams emphasised that her primary objective was not victory but rather to regain match fitness and enjoy the experience. "I didn't come out here to win this tournament," Williams stated. "Winning is obviously great. But in this position just, you know, having fun. It was really cool to be able to do this again."
Venus Williams, 46, echoed the sentiment regarding the significance of their reunion on the court. "We've waited a long time to get back on the doubles court. Eventually, we find our way to each other," she said. "We give each other so much grace and encouragement. This is our first time playing together in forever, and I think we're really getting into our stride."
The duo holds a combined 30 Grand Slam singles titles between them. Attention now turns to the US Open, which begins on Sunday, 30 August. The sisters will require wildcard entries to compete in either singles or doubles at Flushing Meadows, with their participation status yet to be confirmed.
