Serena Williams made a surprise return at the Queen's Club on Tuesday, pairing with 19‑year‑old Canadian Victoria Mboko for the HSBC Championships doubles draw. The duo captured their opening match in straight sets, giving the 44‑year‑old her first competitive win since the 2022 US Open. It felt special to play on the historic grass courts.

Mboko slipped during her singles contest against Karolina Pliskova on Wednesday, injuring her left knee. Tournament officials confirmed the 19‑year‑old will withdraw from the doubles field, handing quarter‑final opponents Leyla Fernandez and Laura Siegemund a walkover. The injury also raises concerns about Mboko’s singles campaign.

Williams said she was taking “one day at a time” and enjoyed finally playing at an iconic venue that traditionally hosts only men. She confirmed plans to compete at next week’s Berlin Open, while her schedule beyond that, including a possible Wimbledon appearance, remains uncertain. She noted family time helped.