Serena Williams has pulled out of her planned Wimbledon doubles appearance with older sister Venus because of a knee injury.
The American pair, who are six-time doubles champions at the All England Club, were scheduled to reunite on a Grand Slam court for the first time since 2022 later on Saturday.
However, 44-year-old Serena Williams is not fit enough to play after picking up a knee problem during her defeat by Australia’s Maya Joint on Tuesday.
The 23-time Grand Slam singles champion did not speak to the media following the match, with Wimbledon organisers saying she was “not able to undertake” her duties.
“I’m heartbroken to have to withdraw from doubles,” said Serena in a post on Instagram.
“Coming back to compete again has been a gift, and the opportunity to play alongside Venus once more meant the world to me.
“I did everything I could to be ready, but unfortunately my knee just isn’t ready to compete.”
Williams’ hopes of playing in Saturday’s doubles looked to have improved after their match was added to the order of play on Friday.
Their tie, against Colombia’s Camila Osorio and Argentina’s Solana Sierra, was not allocated a court and not due to be played before 16:30 BST.
It suggested Williams was being given as long as possible to declare herself fit after her knee swelled up during a gallant three-set loss to 20-year-old Joint.
The loose plan also left Wimbledon with no scheduling issues in case the American superstars did withdraw.
Williams was due to practise at the All England Club at 16:00 but announced her decision to pull out about 15 minutes before.
In her post announcing the decision not to play, she shared photographs of her wearing bandaging on the left knee and of what she said were syringes used to drain fluid from the area.
“I’m especially grateful to tournament director Jamie Baker and the entire tournament team for giving me every opportunity to play here,” said Williams.
“Thank you to the fans after your incredible support and for making this comeback so meaningful.
“All I can say is stay tuned to a city near you.”
Williams has not confirmed what her plans for the next stage of her comeback will be.
After Wimbledon, the season switches to the North American hard court swing which culminates at the US Open between 30 August and 13 September.
