Serena Williams Withdraws from Wimbledon Doubles Due to Knee Injury

Serena Williams had to withdraw from her doubles match with her sister Venus at Wimbledon because of a right knee injury. The decision was announced on Saturday after Serena, 44, suffered the injury during her singles match earlier in the week where she lost in three sets.

In an Instagram post, Serena expressed her disappointment, saying, “I’m heartbroken to have to withdraw from doubles. Coming back to compete again has been a gift, and the opportunity to play alongside Venus meant the world to me. I did everything I could but unfortunately, my knee just isn’t ready to compete.” The post included images of syringes used to drain fluid from her knee after her last singles match. Additionally, a video showed her with bandaging on her right leg, assisted by her daughter holding a cane.

Despite the setback, Serena hinted at a potential return in the near future, suggesting she might compete elsewhere soon. She urged fans to “stay tuned to a city near you” indicating her intention to return to the court.

The Williams sisters, with Venus at 46 years old, were expected to play against Camila Osorio and Solana Sierra. Their match was the only first-round doubles encounter not scheduled earlier, delayed in hopes Serena could recover sufficiently. This decision followed Serena’s singles defeat against 20-year-old Maya Joint from Australia, where she was beaten 6-3, 6-7 (6), 6-3.

Venus also participated in the mixed doubles tournament, partnering with Kevin Krawietz. The duo lost in straight sets to Tereza Mihalikova and Lloyd Glasspool. Known for their formidable partnership, the Williams sisters have won the Wimbledon women’s doubles title six times.