Venus Williams Wins First US Open Doubles Match in Over 10 Years
Venus Williams has returned to the US Open spotlight with a doubles win more than a decade in the making. Partnering with Canadian tennis star Leylah Fernandez, the 45-year-old legend defeated sixth-seeded Lyudmyla Kichenok and Ellen Perez in straight sets, 7-6 (4), 6-3.
This victory marked Williams’ first doubles win in New York since 2014, when she and her sister Serena reached the quarterfinals. Despite her long history of doubles success with Serena, Venus praised Fernandez as “the best partner I ever played with — outside of Serena.”
A Strong Partnership With Leylah Fernandez
Williams credited her connection with Fernandez as a key reason for their success.
“Our energy really matched each other in terms of determination, in terms of not giving up, in terms of really still just focused and dialed in,” Venus said after the match.
The duo’s chemistry on the court was evident as they stayed aggressive against one of the tournament’s top-seeded pairs. Venus admitted she never expected to feel so comfortable with another partner, adding, “That felt amazing because I never really played with a partner — outside of Serena — who had that kind of mentality.”
Venus Williams’ Surprising Doubles Admission
Although she is one of the sport’s most decorated doubles champions, Williams revealed she is not naturally at ease in doubles play.
“It’s an area that I’m not that comfortable in, being on a doubles court,” she explained. She added that she often treats doubles as if she were playing singles, a mindset that helps her settle into the game.
This honest reflection highlights the resilience that has defined her long career. Even when playing in an unfamiliar space, Williams proves she can adapt and rise to the challenge.
A Comeback Story Worth Celebrating
This doubles victory is part of Williams’ broader return to the professional circuit after taking more than a year off. She re-entered competition in July, making history at the DC Open by becoming the oldest player to win a singles match on the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) Tour since Martina Navratilova in 2004.
Her resilience shines not only in doubles but also in singles. Her last singles win came in 2023 at the Cincinnati Open, showing her ability to keep competing at the highest level despite setbacks.
Looking Ahead at the US Open
Next, Williams and Fernandez will face Ulrikke Eikeri and Eri Hozumi in the second round. Both players are optimistic about building on their success.
“I actually feel great,” Williams said. “With some luck, we’ll stay, maybe win another round and just keep getting better.”
Her words reflect both determination and joy — a reminder that Venus Williams’ story is far from finished.
