Serena Williams Withdraws From Doubles With Venus After Knee Injury

Serena Williams has withdrawn from the doubles competition, ending what was set to be an emotional reunion with sister Venus Williams after her right knee failed to recover in time.

In a heartfelt statement shared on social media, the 23-time Grand Slam champion said she was "heartbroken" to pull out, describing her return to competitive tennis and the chance to play alongside Venus once again as "a gift."

"I did everything I could to be ready, but unfortunately my knee just isn't ready to compete," Serena wrote.

She also thanked tournament director Jamie Baker, the organisers and fans for making her comeback meaningful, while hinting that her return to tennis may not be over.

"All I can say is stay tuned to a city near you," she added.

Serena revealed that doctors drained a significant amount of fluid from her knee following her singles match. While the procedure should prevent the knee from swelling again, she admitted she was ultimately unable to recover in time for the doubles event.

The withdrawal brings an end to what fans had hoped would be another memorable chapter for the iconic Williams sisters, whose partnership has produced some of the most successful moments in tennis history.