Serena Williams, the 44-year-old tennis icon, has withdrawn from the highly anticipated Wimbledon doubles competition alongside her sister Venus Williams due to a knee issue. The official Wimbledon Instagram account announced the withdrawal on July 4, 2026.
Singles Return and Injury
Williams had just returned to singles play at Wimbledon after a four-year absence, losing a dramatic first-round match to 20-year-old Australian Maya Joint. The 23-time Grand Slam champion saved a match point in the second set to force a decider but ultimately fell 6-3, 6-7 (6-8), 6-3. In an Instagram post reflecting on the loss, she revealed she had tweaked her knee during the match.
Withdrawal Announcement
In her statement, Williams expressed her disappointment: "I am heartbroken to have to withdraw from doubles. Coming back to compete again has been a gift, and the opportunity to play alongside Venus 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."
The wildcard entry marked Williams' first Wimbledon singles appearance in four years, following her return to competitive action in June at Queen's Club, where she partnered rising star Victoria Mboko in doubles. That pair won their opening-round match, but Mboko later withdrew due to injury, which also prevents her from playing at Wimbledon.
Venus Williams' Status
Venus Williams, who returned to the tour last July after a 16-month break, is currently ranked No. 119 in doubles. Her best result since returning was reaching the US Open quarterfinals last year with Leylah Fernandez.
