American professional tennis player, climbing the WTA rankings
Serena and Venus Williams, aged 44 and 46, have fallen short in a dramatic first-round doubles match at the US Open, losing 6-3 6-7 (6) 7-6 (7-6). The return, highly anticipated, showcased their enduring talent and sparked questions about their futures. Joint and Chan Hao-ching edged them out in a nail-biting decider at Arthur Ashe Stadium.
Aryna Sabalenka has reached the US Open fourth round after a straight-sets win over Kamilla Rakhimova, while addressing a strong cannabis smell on court. The World No. 1 has maintained form with 10 aces and no break points conceded, but questions linger about the distraction and the tournament’s handling of off-site smoke. Sabalenka faces Taylor Townsend or Diana Shnaider next; Alcaraz and Medvedev have also progressed.
Carlos Alcaraz has returned from a wrist injury to play in the US Open, teaming with Serena Williams in the mixed doubles. The news follows his four-month absence from singles and Williams’ comeback after a hiatus. The event adds star power to the Open, with other high-profile partnerships and a large field across both singles and doubles.
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.