Serena Williams marked her competitive return to tennis with a commanding doubles victory at Queen's Club, ending a four-year absence. The 44-year-old 23-time Grand Slam singles champion partnered Canadian teenager Victoria Mboko, defeating third-seeded duo Nicole Melichar-Martinez and Erin Routliffe 7-6 (7-2) 6-2 in her first professional match since the 2022 US Open.

Williams showcased the power that defined her illustrious career, serving up to 120 mph during a tight first set. Despite her time away, the American great demonstrated her trademark precision, with Mboko providing consistent support. The unseeded pair converted crucial breaks in the second set before completing the victory with match-winning aces, drawing a standing ovation from the Andy Murray Arena crowd.

Having previously stated she was "evolving" rather than retiring, Williams emphasized she has "nothing to prove" in her comeback. The 14-time Grand Slam doubles champion will next compete in Berlin, with Wimbledon participation still unconfirmed. Her return to an event where she never played singles adds a special chapter to her already legendary career.