Serena Williams makes successful return to tennis court

Serena Williams made a triumphant return to the tennis court, partnering with Victoria Mboko in the doubles at the Queen's Club in London. The American star, who had been absent from the sport for four years, showed flashes of her former brilliance, including powerful serves, as they defeated the third-seeded pair of Erin Routliffe and Nicole Melichar-Martinez 7-6 (2), 6-2.

Williams, a 23-time Grand Slam singles champion, had retired from professional tennis four years ago. Her surprise announcement to compete in doubles in West London sparked excitement among fans and fueled speculation about a possible singles run at Wimbledon. Her last Grand Slam singles appearance was at the US Open in 2022.

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It was a lot of fun playing with Victoria. I haven't played here before, it's always been men competing here. So it's a little bit more of a special feeling playing in this legendary venue.

"It was a lot of fun playing with Victoria," said the 44-year-old Williams. "I haven't played here before, it's always been men competing here. So it's a little bit more of a special feeling playing in this legendary venue." She added, "I had nothing better to do. I was tired of sitting at home. The kids are out of school for the summer, so I said, 'Why not?'" Williams is also scheduled to play doubles in Berlin from June 15-21. Her last Grand Slam singles title was at the Australian Open in 2017.

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I had nothing better to do. I was tired of sitting at home. The kids are out of school for the summer, so I said, 'Why not?'