Serena Williams Withdraws From Wimbledon Doubles After Knee Injury
Serena Williams has pulled out of her planned Wimbledon doubles return alongside sister Venus Williams after aggravating a knee injury. The American pair, six‑time Wimbledon doubles champions, were set to face Colombia’s Camila Osorio and Argentina’s Solana Sierra on July 4.
The injury occurred during Williams’ three‑set loss to Australia’s Maya Joint on Tuesday. Despite hopes that a late addition to Saturday’s order of play would give her extra time to recover, she decided to withdraw shortly before a scheduled practice session at the All England Club.
In an Instagram post, Williams expressed her disappointment:
“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 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.”
She thanked tournament director Jamie Baker, the Wimbledon staff, and fans for their support, adding that she would keep fans updated on her future plans.
Iga Swiatek Suffers Shock Third‑Round Exit
Elsewhere on Centre Court, defending champion Iga Swiatek was stunned by Alexandra Eala of the Philippines, losing 7‑6 (11‑9), 6‑2. The upset followed another surprise result as 2022 champion Elena Rybakina fell to Belgium’s Elise Mertens, 7‑6 (7‑4), 6‑1.
Rybakina’s defeat ensures that Aryna Sabalenka will retain the world number‑one ranking after the Championships. Swiatek’s loss also extends a notable Wimbledon streak: no woman has successfully defended the singles title since Serena Williams did so in 2016.
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