For decades, Serena and Venus Williams weren’t just dominant singles players—they also formed one of the most successful doubles teams in tennis history. Together, the sisters claimed 14 Grand Slam doubles titles and three Olympic gold medals.
Yet, despite those milestones, their singles triumphs often took center stage. Recently, though, Venus surprised fans with an unexpected confession about her doubles career.
During a lighthearted “this or that” segment with Bleacher Report, Venus was asked to choose between singles and doubles. To the shock of many, she immediately picked singles—even though her doubles record is more decorated. “Singles. I’m not a doubles player,” she admitted bluntly. Venus went further, revealing she’s done with doubles altogether: “I’m retired in doubles but no one believes me. I’ve played with Serena; it doesn’t get much better than that. I think I’ve done it all in doubles.” She also ruled out competing in doubles or mixed doubles at future tournaments, including the US Open.
The Williams sisters’ doubles journey began with their first title at Roland Garros in 1999. Over the years, they picked up majors sporadically, clinching their last Slam at Wimbledon in 2016. Despite being rivals in singles, their doubles chemistry was undeniable, both on the court and off it.
In 2022, before Serena officially stepped away from professional tennis, the sisters reunited at the US Open for one last doubles run. Although they exited in the first round, the match brought back memories of their glory days. Later, Venus confessed she missed sharing the court with her sister. Watching a doubles match at the Miami Open in 2024, she even joked, “I miss playing doubles with my partner [Serena]. But do we now play net chords in doubles? And did I just not know that?”
While Venus now insists she prefers singles, it’s clear that playing alongside Serena remains close to her heart. For fans, too, the Williams sisters will forever be remembered as one of the greatest doubles pairings in the sport.
