Serena Williams is using the women’s doubles event at the U.S. Open with her sister Venus to prepare for a return to singles competition in 2027.
Why it matters: Williams, age 44, aims to regain her form after a series of injuries. Competing in doubles helps her build momentum for a future singles comeback.
On September 4, 2026, the Williams sisters lost their first-round doubles match against Maya Joint and H.C. Chan, with scores of 6-3, 6-7, 7-6 in Arthur Ashe Stadium.
ESPN’s Caroline Wozniacki stated that Serena’s knee is still not fully healed and expects her to focus on recovery for a 2027 singles return.
Serena has won 23 Grand Slam singles titles, with seven Australian Open and six U.S. Open championships.
Driving the news: After returning to singles at Wimbledon 2026 and losing in the first round to Joint, Williams is taking a cautious approach to her comeback.
She pulled out of the doubles at Wimbledon due to a knee injury sustained during her singles match.
Williams expressed her intention to compete in singles again, saying, "I probably will play again. I have to...After some of those returns, I think I need to play at least once."
She wants her daughters, Olympia and Adira, to see her play at a different age.
The big picture: Williams’ return to competitive tennis comes after a lengthy break from the sport. She aims to balance her career with family life and business ventures.
Forbes estimates her net worth at $400 million, making her the world’s richest female athlete.
In August 2022, she announced that she was "evolving away from tennis" to focus on her family and her venture capital firm, Serena Ventures.
Williams has been active in doubles competitions since June 2026, including events in London, Berlin, and Cincinnati.
What they're saying: Williams maintains a positive outlook on her return, emphasizing the importance of enjoying the process.
In an interview with People Magazine, she stated, "I really don't have an agenda right now. I'm taking it one match at a time and seeing where my body can take me."
She also mentioned feeling stronger and more capable as she continues to compete.
"It’s been exciting to see what I’m capable of and to feel myself getting stronger," she said.
By the numbers: Williams' impressive career statistics highlight her status as a tennis icon.
She has won 23 Grand Slam singles titles and 14 Grand Slam doubles championships.
Her last singles title came at the 2017 Australian Open, where she claimed her 23rd Grand Slam crown.
Williams has played in over 100 Grand Slam tournaments throughout her career.
What's next: Williams will continue to balance her training and family life as she prepares for her anticipated singles return.
She is currently competing in doubles at the U.S. Open, with her next match scheduled against Maya Joint and Hao-Ching Chan.
Williams plans to focus on her health and recovery before committing to a full singles schedule.
Fans are hopeful for her return at the Australian Open in January 2027, where she could make her long-awaited singles comeback.