Serena and Venus Williams Make Wimbledon Doubles Return After 10 Years
Serena Williams and Venus Williams, who hold six Wimbledon women’s doubles titles as a pair, have been granted wild-card entries to compete together at the 2024 tournament, marking their first doubles appearance since the 2018 French Open, according to Wimbledon officials. The sisters, who last played doubles at the 2022 US Open, will enter the tournament as wild cards due to their current ATP/WTA rankings, a status they previously held when winning their first Grand Slam doubles titles in the 1990s.
Why This Return Matters for Tennis History
The Williams sisters’ Wimbledon doubles reunion is a milestone for tennis, given their dominance in the sport. They have 14 Grand Slam doubles titles together, including six at Wimbledon, with no losses in major finals, according to the ATP Tour. Their 2016 Wimbledon victory remains one of their most recent major doubles wins. The pair also secured Olympic gold in doubles at Sydney 2000, Beijing 2008, and London 2012, as noted by the International Olympic Committee.
How Serena’s Comeback Sets the Stage
Serena Williams’ return to competitive play this year began at the 2024 Queen’s Club Championships, where she partnered with Victoria Mboko. The duo advanced to the second round before withdrawing due to Mboko’s knee injury, as reported by Reuters. Serena, 44, had previously announced her retirement in 2022 but has since expressed interest in competing again, citing her passion for the game. Her participation in Wimbledon underscores her ongoing influence in tennis, despite her limited singles schedule this year.
What’s Next for Venus Williams in Singles?
Venus, 43, has struggled in singles play in 2024, posting a 1-5 record in tournaments so far, according to WTA data. However, her focus on doubles at Wimbledon highlights her commitment to team play. Both sisters will rely on their historic synergy, having last won a doubles title at the 2018 Australian Open. Their partnership is expected to draw significant fan attention, with Wimbledon officials noting the event’s “unique cultural significance” in celebrating their legacy.
How This Compares to Past Williams Achievements
The sisters’ 2024 Wimbledon entry contrasts with their earlier careers, when they dominated doubles as teenagers. In 1998, they won their first Grand Slam doubles title at the US Open, a feat they repeated 13 more times. Their 2016 Wimbledon victory came during a period when they were both in their 30s, showcasing their longevity. This year’s return, however, occurs amid a broader shift in women’s tennis, as younger players like Coco Gauff and Iga Świątek dominate the singles rankings.
The Williams sisters’ Wimbledon doubles appearance is set to begin on July 1, with their first match scheduled for July 3. Fans worldwide will watch as the pair aims to add to their legendary legacy on the grass courts of SW19.