Serena Williams, the 23‑time Grand Slam singles champion, told ESPN’s Malika Andrews on “Good Morning America” that she “probably” plans to play singles again at the U.S. Open. The 44‑year‑old legend, who made her first appearance at the tournament since 2022, said she wants to give her daughters, Olympia and Adira, a living example of perseverance.
Injury kept her out of singles this year
Williams explained that an injury sustained at Wimbledon earlier this summer prevented her from entering the singles draw at this year’s U.S. Open. “I injured myself at Wimbledon and didn’t have time to recover,” she said, adding she did not want to take a wild‑card away from a player who could compete at full strength.
Family motivation
When asked why she wants to return, Williams emphasized the importance of her children seeing her compete. “Anything is possible,” she told her daughters. “You can do anything at any age as long as you work hard and put effort and dedication behind it.” She also noted that motherhood has changed how she prepares for matches, constantly checking on her kids’ well‑being.
Mixed doubles partnership with Carlos Alcaraz
Williams teamed up with rising star Carlos Alcaraz in mixed doubles after he suggested they play together in New York. The pair won their opening match but fell in the quarterfinals to Belinda Bencic and Flavio Cobolli.
Women’s doubles with sister Venus
Serena will also compete in women’s doubles alongside her older sister Venus, a partnership prompted by her daughter Olympia’s suggestion. The Williams sisters received a wild‑card for this year’s U.S. Open and will play their first‑round match this week. Together, they have captured 14 Grand Slam doubles titles.
Williams’ potential return to singles adds excitement for fans and underscores a message of faith, hard work, and family values that resonates beyond the court.
Original reporting: Brookhaven News – ABC7 New York — read the source article.