Serena Williams made a triumphant return to tennis on Tuesday, partnering with Canadian teenager Victoria Mboko to win a doubles match at the Queen's Club Championships in London. The 44-year-old tennis legend, who had not played competitively since retiring after the 2022 US Open, showed flashes of her old brilliance in a 6-4, 6-3 victory over the British duo of Harriet Dart and Heather Watson.
Emotional comeback
Williams, a 23-time Grand Slam singles champion, received a standing ovation as she walked onto the court. She and Mboko, 19, broke serve early in both sets and never looked back. After the match, Williams said she felt 'nervous but excited' to be back on grass courts. 'I've missed this feeling,' she told the crowd. 'Victoria was amazing out there. She kept me calm.'
Mboko's admiration
Mboko, who grew up watching Williams dominate the sport, said playing alongside her idol was a dream come true. 'I've always admired Serena on the court,' Mboko said. 'Her intensity, her power, her will to win. To share the court with her is something I'll never forget.' The Canadian, ranked 112th in the world in singles, said she learned a lot from Williams' composure under pressure.
The duo faced break points early in the first set but held firm, with Williams unleashing her trademark powerful serves and sharp volleys. The match lasted just over an hour, with Williams and Mboko converting four of their seven break-point opportunities.
What's next for Williams?
Williams has not confirmed whether she will play singles again, but her return to doubles has sparked speculation of a broader comeback. She is scheduled to play another doubles match later this week at Queen's Club, potentially with a different partner. The tournament serves as a warm-up for Wimbledon, where Williams has won seven singles titles.
Fans and analysts alike are watching closely. 'Serena moving well, hitting cleanly, and competing with joy,' wrote tennis commentator Mary Carillo on social media. 'Great to have her back.'
