WTA Venus Williams WTA Cincinnati 2026

The return of the Williams sisters in doubles ends with a thrilling defeat in Cincinnati

Fernando Murciego - 18 Aug 2026
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The return of the Williams sisters to doubles ends with a thrilling defeat in Cincinnati. Source: Getty

Serena and Venus Williams reunited as a pair four years after their last appearance together and starred in one of the most exciting matches of the day at the WTA 1000 in Cincinnati. Unfortunately, the Americans, who received a wildcard to compete in the doubles draw, ended up losing to Marta Kostyuk and Peyton Stearns by 6-2, 1-6, and 10-8.

The match had a particularly symbolic element, as the sisters had not shared the court since the 2022 US Open. Additionally, it was their first match together in a tournament other than a Grand Slam since Rome 2016. The anticipation in Ohio was high, and the crowd responded to the presence of two of the most important figures in tennis history.

The start was challenging for the Williams sisters. Kostyuk and Stearns claimed the first set 6-2, taking advantage of their rivals' doubts. However, Serena and Venus quickly reacted, raised their level, and dominated the second set to win 6-1 and take the match to the decisive super tiebreak.

The conclusion was worthy of a thriller. Kostyuk and Stearns found themselves ahead 8-2 and seemed to have the victory practically secured, but the Williams sisters mounted a spectacular comeback that brought them close, trailing 8-9. When it seemed everything was heading towards a historic comeback, Venus committed a double fault that ended the match.

In this way, Serena and Venus bid farewell to Cincinnati after a return filled with emotion, while Kostyuk and Stearns advance to the next round after surviving a match that had the crowd completely engaged.

This is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, El regreso de las Williams al dobles termina con una derrota de infarto en Cincinnati