Serena Williams’ participation in the upcoming women’s doubles at Wimbledon with her sister Venus is uncertain due to a knee injury. The 23-time Grand Slam singles champion recently played her first singles match since the 2022 US Open, where she suffered a 6-3, 6-7 (6), 6-3 defeat against 20-year-old Australian Maya Joint on Centre Court.
This event marks the first time the Williams sisters will compete together in doubles since they secured their sixth title a decade ago. However, following her match, Williams did not attend the necessary post-match press conference, a move that could result in a fine of up to $50,000 (£46,500) under Grand Slam regulations, unless justified by valid reasons.
Jill Smoller, Williams’ agent, issued a statement clarifying that the 44-year-old was excused from her media responsibilities due to a knee injury sustained during the first set. Although there were no visible signs of injury during the match, the severity remains unclear, and Williams has previously missed media obligations.
“unable to appear on reasonable grounds” the statement explained. “Serena tweaked her right knee at the end of the first set and was therefore excused from her media obligations by the Wimbledon and WTA medical teams,”
The All England Club has granted a wildcard entry for Serena and Venus, whose combined age is 90, allowing them to participate in the doubles event. Following her match, Williams opted to release a brief statement rather than conduct interviews, despite receiving a warm standing ovation as she exited Centre Court.
While the All England Club has refrained from making a comment on the matter, sources suggest that Williams is unlikely to face a fine due to her inability to meet her media obligations. Williams expressed her joy at returning to Wimbledon, stating,
“She left [the] site that night unaided and is doing everything she can to be ready for her doubles match later this week.”
