Williams Sisters Fall Short in US Open Doubles Return

On September 5, 2026, Serena and Venus Williams experienced a heartbreaking defeat in the first round of the US Open doubles at Flushing Meadows, losing to the 14th seeds Maya Joint and Chan Hao-Ching with a score of 6-3, 6-7 (6-8), 7-6 (10-7) after three hours and two minutes of play. The Williams sisters, who were competing together in a Grand Slam for the first time since the 2022 US Open, initially fell behind after losing the first set.

However, they fought back to win the second set in a tie-break, converting their fifth set point. In the deciding set, they took a commanding 5-0 lead in the tie-break but ultimately lost 10-7, ending their hopes of advancing in the tournament.

This match was significant as it marked their return to Grand Slam doubles 27 years after their first US Open doubles title, showcasing their enduring legacy in tennis.