Serena and Venus Williams suffered a painful defeat in their long-awaited return to Grand Slam doubles at the US Open, ending a highly anticipated reunion for two of the sport's most decorated champions.
A Reunion Fans Had Waited For
The sisters, who have combined for 14 Grand Slam doubles titles together over their careers, had drawn huge attention simply by entering the doubles draw at Flushing Meadows this year, with fans packing the outer courts hoping to see a flash of their old form. The match ultimately proved a step too far, and the pair exited in an emotional, closely fought contest.
Defending Champions Roll On
The Williams sisters' exit came on the same day defending singles champions Carlos Alcaraz and Aryna Sabalenka both advanced comfortably into the fourth round. Alcaraz, playing his first major since a four-month wrist injury layoff, beat China's Wu Yibing in straight sets, while Sabalenka delivered a dominant win over Kamilla Rakhimova to continue her bid for a rare US Open three-peat.
A Tournament Full Of Storylines
The day's action also included several American players advancing deep into the draw, keeping alive hopes of a strong home showing in the tournament's second week. Organizers have also been working through a backlog of matches after early rain delays disrupted the schedule.
What's Next
Alcaraz and Sabalenka will both look to build on their form as the tournament heads into its business end, while for the Williams sisters, the doubles defeat closes the book on this particular comeback bid, even as tributes poured in online celebrating their return to a Grand Slam court together.