What's happened
The Williams sisters have been granted a wildcard to compete in the US Open doubles, reuniting after their last New York appearance in 2022. Serena has returned to tennis this summer and will not play singles, while Venus is entering singles and doubles as she pursues a continued comeback. The duo will begin their campaign in New York in early September, with the doubles final scheduled for 11 September.
What's behind the headline?
Analysis
- The articles confirm a reunion of the Williams sisters for the US Open doubles, with wildcards granted by the USTA and Serena's ongoing comeback.
- They are re-entering New York after a 2-year gap since their last doubles appearance there in 2022, framing this as a high-profile return rather than a routine comeback.
- The focus remains on doubles; Serena is not slated for singles despite a wildcard in 2026, while Venus is entering singles as part of her broader comeback.
- The coverage highlights past success (14 majors) to contextualize expectations, while acknowledging injuries and recent match results (Cincinnati loss) that may influence performance and strategy.
- The evolving doubles pairing story is likely to shape expectations for the US Open doubles draw, with attention on how far they can advance given age, form, and the competitive field.
Forecast: Expect a high-profile run in doubles with potential landmark moments for fans, but results will hinge on Serena's physical health and doubles chemistry with Venus.
How we got here
Serena Williams has returned to professional tennis this year after a four-year hiatus. She and Venus have previously won 14 major doubles titles together, most recently at Wimbledon in 2016. Their return follows Serena's mixed doubles run with Carlos Alcaraz at the US Open, and a round of competition at Cincinnati where they lost in the first round. The wildcard grants come as both players navigate comebacks and the evolving doubles field.
Our analysis
Independent: The sisters have a rich doubles history with 14 majors and two US Open titles, and recent form has included a Cincinnati setback. BBC Business: Reunited for the US Open doubles after a Cincinnati loss and Serena's return in doubles at Queen's, with wildcards granted by the USTA. Guardian: Confirms wildcard entry and notes Serena's return and 2022 New York appearance.
Go deeper
- Will Serena and Venus make a deep run in doubles this year?
- How will Serena's knee and form influence their performance?
- What impact does a wildcard entry have on the doubles field at the US Open?
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