BERLIN — Serena Williams’ anticipated return faced an obstacle on Tuesday as she experienced a setback in her opening doubles match at the Berlin Open.
Teaming up with Karolina Muchova, Williams was defeated by Giuliana Olmos and Erin Routliffe, who clinched the victory with a score of 6-4, 6-4, concluding Williams’ journey in the WTA 500 grass-court event prematurely.
Despite the loss, the warmth and admiration from fans enveloped Williams, marking her second appearance following a triumphant win at Queen’s Club last week in London, her first professional match since the 2022 U.S. Open.
The 44-year-old star was met with an enthusiastic cheer and applause as she stepped onto center court at the Steffi Graf Stadion, which quickly filled with fans savoring snacks and drinks outside, eager to witness the main event.
Earlier on Tuesday, Wimbledon organizers revealed that Williams and her elder sister Venus, who celebrates her 46th birthday on Wednesday, have been awarded a wild-card invitation for the doubles event at the tournament starting in less than two weeks.
