An unconfirmed report claiming that Venus Williams hurt her knee during the coin toss ahead of her Cincinnati Open first-round match is garnering a wave of reactions on social media. Sports analyst Eric Hubbs took a fiery shot at the older Williams sister, claiming that if that indeed was the case, it is perhaps time to call it a career.
“Maybe time to retire if you’re getting hurt during the coin toss,” Eric Hubbs wrote.
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After a 16-month gap, the former World No. 1 Venus Williams returned to tennis at the Mubadala Citi DC Open in Washington. She had been going through recurring injury setbacks, like surgery for uterine fibroids and autoimmune disease, before she stepped away from tennis in March 2024. Since her comeback, the 46-year-old has returned to participate in the Grand Slam at the US Open in August 2025, the doubles reunion alongside her sister Serena Williams, in the Cincinnati Open, and more.
Venus Williams to return in US Open singles after doubles reunion with sister in Cincinnati Open
The former World No. 1 will once again take part in the 2026 US Open after receiving a wild card entry at the prestigious Grand Slam tournament. The tournament organizers granted the 2x US Open winner a women’s singles main-draw wild card on Tuesday. Last year, the 7-time Grand Slam champion was eliminated in the first round of the tournament.
At the beginning of 2026, the former World No. 1 in singles during the Open Era also participated in the French Open, after five years, alongside former World No. 3 Sloane Stephens.
Venus and Serena faced Marta Kostyuk and Peyton Stearns in front of a packed crowd in Ohio. Their intense battle eventually ended in a 2-6, 6-1, 10-8 defeat. In an emotional post-game interview, Venus reflected on what an emotional moment it was for her to play alongside her sister on the doubles court. Four years ago, they had played together in the US Open, after which Serena had announced her retirement.
“We’ve waited a long time to get back on the doubles court. Eventually, we find our way to each other. We give each other so much grace and encouragement. This is our first time playing together in forever, and I think we’re really getting into our stride,” Venus Williams said.
Although the Williams sisters have not announced plans to play in any more doubles, they are likely to pair up again if they receive another wild card entry.
Venus Williams and Father Richard recall one match that 7-time Grand Slam champion “should have won”
Edited by Ahana Bhaumik