LONDON (AP) – After nearly four years away from professional tennis, Serena Williams made a triumphant return at Queen’s Club on Tuesday. The 44-year-old tennis legend demonstrated that she still possesses her iconic power, launching service winners that clocked in at speeds of up to 120 mph. Williams teamed up with 19-year-old Canadian tennis sensation Victoria Mboko, and together they won their opening doubles match at the prestigious grass-court tournament.
In their first match since Williams' departure from the sport following the 2022 U.S. Open, they defeated the third-seeded duo of Nicole Melichar-Martinez and Erin Routliffe with a score of 7-6 (2), 6-2. To emphasize her return, Williams showcased her finishing abilities by serving out the match with two aces followed by a powerful service winner.
During an on-court interview, Williams expressed her joy at being back in competition, saying, “It was so fun. I had so much fun playing with Victoria. She really was able to hold up the team and really play big on the big points. I could really rely on her. We’ve never played together but it just felt so natural playing with her.” Her performance not only displayed her own enduring talent but also highlighted her ability to adapt to new partnerships on the court.
Victoria Mboko, a rising star on the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) tour, has already made her mark by entering the top 10 in the rankings at No. 9. Expressing her excitement about partnering with Williams, Mboko stated, “I feel very honored to play with Serena. I had a lot of fun, if anything. We really did that out there. I’m so happy to be playing beside you. And we’re going for more.” This collaboration showcases the blending of experienced talent and youthful ambition, signaling a promising future for both players.
Last week, Williams announced her return to the doubles format but has not yet made a decision regarding a full comeback to singles competition. Her performance at Queen's Club may serve as a crucial step in her journey back to professional tennis. The anticipation surrounding her possible return to singles adds an intriguing layer to her already storied career.
As fans worldwide watch closely, Saturday marked a significant day not only for Williams but also for the sport as a whole, reminding everyone of the enduring legacy and talent of one of tennis's greatest players. The charismatic atmosphere at Queen's Club echoed Williams' historical significance and the excitement of her newfound partnership with the young Canadian player. The tennis community eagerly awaits to see what Williams' next steps will be as she seeks to reclaim her place in the competitive landscape of professional tennis.
