Serena and Venus Williams face potential penalties after US Open exit
Serena and Venus Williams risked punishment from US Open officials after skipping their media duties following a dramatic first-round doubles defeat in New York, reports BritPanorama.
The sisters walked away from Arthur Ashe Stadium without attending their mandatory post-match press conference after surrendering a commanding lead against Maya Joint and Chan Hao-ching.
Failing to complete those media commitments represents a breach of tournament regulations and can theoretically result in a fine of up to $50,000 (£37,000). However, US Open organisers are not expected to impose that penalty on two of the most celebrated players in the tournament’s history.
Their absence brought a frustrating conclusion to an evening that marked the first time Serena and Venus had competed together at a Grand Slam since 2022. The American pair, who have a combined age of 90, rolled back the years during long stretches of a contest. They appeared destined to advance after establishing a 5-0 advantage in the deciding 10-point tie-break.
Yet their grip on the match disappeared as Joint and Chan claimed 10 of the next 12 points to complete a 6-3, 6-7, 7-6 victory and silence a crowd hoping for another famous Williams triumph. Venus, 46, had been the most impressive player on the court but tightened up at the net under pressure, contributing to the sisters’ late collapse.
The atmosphere inside Arthur Ashe Stadium underscored the enduring affection for the Williams sisters. Spectators who had spent much of the tournament chatting between points watched in near silence whenever they entered a rally, erupting with cheers whenever the Americans succeeded.
Despite the defeat, Serena’s ambitions remain visible. Those close to the 23-time Grand Slam singles champion reportedly believe she retains hopes of competitive singles matches, though her performances since returning to the tour have raised questions about whether she can reach the required level to challenge leading opponents.
Her exceptional doubles success, including victories while partnering with US Open favourite Carlos Alcaraz in the revamped mixed doubles competition, contrasts sharply with the heart-rending conclusion of her match with Venus. They allowed a seemingly dominant position to slip away, a reminder of how even legends can face harsh realities on the court.
