Serena and Venus Williams returned to Grand Slam doubles at the 2026 US Open, captivating a packed Arthur Ashe Stadium despite their combined age of 90. The 44-year-old and 46-year-old siblings pushed 14th seeds Hao-Ching Chan and Maya Joint to three sets, ultimately losing 6-3 6-7 (6-8) 7-6 (10-7). After a quiet first set, the crowd roared as the sisters rallied, forcing a match tie-break.

Though they held a 5-0 lead in the decider, double faults from each opponent allowed Chan and Joint to fight back. The loss marked their first US Open doubles appearance since 2022. Serena hinted at a singles return on Good Morning America, while Venus stated she should not have to think about her future beyond doubles.

Following the match, the sisters declined media interviews, leaving fans to wonder what lies ahead. Their on-court presence commanded ultimate respect from a typically vocal crowd. The duo, who have won 14 Grand Slam doubles titles together and 30 singles majors between them, continue to reshape perceptions of age in professional tennis.

Their return follows a knee injury to Serena at Wimbledon and a previous defeat at the WTA event in Cincinnati.