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Tennis legends Serena and Venus Williams were defeated in their return to the US Open women’s doubles after losing to Chan Hao-ching and Maya Joint in a thrilling three-set match on Friday.
The Williams sisters, who have won 14 Grand Slam doubles titles together, including two US Open titles, fell 6-3, 6-7 (6/8), 7-6 (10/7) in front of a packed Arthur Ashe Stadium.
The defeat ended their comeback after the sisters had not competed in Grand Slam doubles together since the 2022 US Open.
Venus, 46, and Serena, 44, last won a doubles title together at the 2018 French Open.
The strong comeback is not enough
After losing the opening set, the American sisters fought back strongly in the second set and forced a tiebreak.
They produced 20 winners during the set and held their serves throughout before tying the match when Joint sent a long shot overhead.
Serena, a 23-time Grand Slam singles champion, was particularly effective at the net, producing several powerful volleys and lead shots.
However, he struggled with his serve at times as the match progressed.
Chan and Joint regain control
Chan and Joint responded strongly in the deciding set, taking a 4-2 lead before the Williams sisters staged another comeback.
The Americans then jumped ahead 5-0 in the decisive 10-point tiebreaker and appeared on their way to completing a stunning victory.
However, Chan and Joint recovered brilliantly, overturning the deficit and winning the tiebreaker 10–7 to book their place in the next round.
The relative praises the Williams sisters
The match marked Serena’s first appearance at the US Open since 2022 and came after her return to major singles competition at Wimbledon, where she received a wild card.
Serena lost to Joint at Wimbledon in a Center Court match that attracted widespread attention.
Joint said the atmosphere at Arthur Ashe Stadium was even more intense when she faced both sisters.
“The atmosphere was surreal,” Joint said. “Being able to play against these legends of the game is truly special.”
The Williams sisters received a huge ovation when they entered the court, with spectators responding enthusiastically to their every shot.
Despite the defeat, their comeback created a memorable evening at the US Open and marked another significant chapter in the careers of two of tennis’ most accomplished sisters.
