Despite being just hours away from playing a doubles match with her sister, Serena Williams announced on social media that she was forced to withdraw from this year’s Wimbledon because of a knee injury.
According to the star, her “knee just isn’t ready to compete.” This most likely is not the end of the road for Williams, however, as she told fans to stay tuned for a city near them, potentially hinting at a return to the U.S. Open in August.
Here’s the latest on why the American star withdrew from Wimbledon.
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Why did Serena Williams withdraw from Wimbledon?
On Saturday, Williams announced on her social media that she would be unable to continue doubles play at Wimbledon. The 23-time Grand Slam winner had just returned to the sport she dominated in June. Prior to that, she had not played since the 2022 U.S. Open.
“I’m heartbroken to have to withdraw from doubles. Coming back to compete again has been a gift, and the opportunity to play alongside @venuswilliams once more meant the world to me,” Williams said on her Instagram page. “I did everything I could to be ready, but unfortunately my knee just isn’t ready to compete.”
At the moment, it is unclear whether or not Williams will be able to return to the sport she loves. She has withdrawn from Wimbledon, and the star will have a tough decision to make regarding just how long her return to tennis will be.
What happened to Serena Williams?
On Saturday, Williams was forced to withdraw from doubles play with her sister, Venus, at Wimbledon. The American reportedly picked up an injury during her singles match earlier this week, according to the Associated Press.
Prior to the doubles match, Wimbledon’s organizers pushed it back to give Williams more time to deal with a knee injury she fell victim to during her singles loss.
The star also told viewers that another return could be imminent.
“Thank you to the fans for your incredible support and for making this comeback so meaningful…All I can say is stay tuned to a city near you…”