Venus Williams’ US Open campaign in singles may have come to an end in the first round, but her pursuit of the doubles title goes on.
Williams and Leylah Fernandez emerged victorious in their opening matchup against the team of Lyudmyla Kichenok and Ellen Perez.
The North American duo were taken to a tiebreak in the first set, but came out on top and took the second set to knock the sixth seeds out and advance to the second round.
In pursuit of her first Grand Slam doubles title, Fernandez teamed up with Williams, who has achieved the feat on 14 separate occasions over the years, including two triumphs at Flushing Meadows.
Following their victory, the Canadian took to social media to send a message to the 45-year-old legend.
Leylah Fernandez’s message to Venus Williams after their win
Fernandez said on Instagram: “What a privilege to share the court with you @venuswilliams
“I had so much fun on the court today and can’t wait for round two,” added the former US Open singles finalist.
In round two, they will face off against Eri Hozumi and Ulrikke Eikeri, who won their opening match in three sets.
Both stars featured in singles alongside their doubles runs, with Fernandez set to face world number one Aryna Sabalenka next.
Venus Williams’ results at the 2025 US Open so far
Williams has competed in three events at Flushing Meadows this year, appearing in singles, doubles and mixed doubles.
She began with the latter during ‘Fan Week’, partnering compatriot Reilly Opelka in the revamped competition, in which the two bowed out in the first round.
In singles, Williams suffered another first-round exit after losing to Karolina Muchova in three sets at Arthur Ashe Stadium.
Now, the seven-time Grand Slam champion will hope to go deep in doubles with Fernandez by her side.
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