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Serena Williams news
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The gist
Serena Williams returns to the U.S. Open in mixed doubles with Carlos Alcaraz. The 23-time Grand Slam singles champion plays her first match since 2022.
Background
Serena Williams stepped away from tennis after the 2022 U.S. Open, never formally announcing retirement. She returned to pro tennis in June 2026, playing doubles and singles at Wimbledon, and has competed in four events this year. The USTA granted her and Carlos Alcaraz a wild card into the mixed doubles draw, marking her competitive return to the U.S. Open.
How it unfolded
- 2022Williams played her last U.S. Open before stepping away from tennis, without formally retiring.
- Jun 2026Williams returned to professional tennis at Wimbledon, playing singles and doubles, though she lost in singles and withdrew from doubles due to a knee injury.
- Aug 17, 2026Williams played doubles with her sister Venus at the Cincinnati Open.
- Aug 22, 2026The USTA announced that Williams and Carlos Alcaraz received a wild card into the U.S. Open mixed doubles tournament.
- Aug 25, 2026Williams and Alcaraz are scheduled to play their first mixed doubles match against Erin Routliffe and Lloyd Glasspool at 11:00 am EDT.
Who’s saying what
- Official
- The USTA granted Williams and Alcaraz a wild card, highlighting the star power of the pairing.
- Analysts
- Analysts note the combined 46 Grand Slam titles of the duo, calling them a 'powerhouse' pair.
- Public
- Fans and media have dubbed the pairing a 'dream team,' anticipating a highly watched match.
Still unverified
Williams has not officially confirmed whether she will play singles at the U.S. Open, though the USTA held a wild card that eventually went to Sofia Kenin.