Serena Williams made a remarkable return to tennis after nearly four years away from the sport. Fans gathered at Queen’s Club in London to witness her return in the women’s doubles. Some, like Sarah from Northern Ireland, traveled long distances for the event. She joined countless fans worldwide in watching Williams’ first match in 1,375 days.

The 44-year-old tennis legend partnered with Victoria Mboko against the third-seeded duo of Erin Routliffe from New Zealand and Nicole Melichar-Martinez from the U.S. The match concluded with a 7-6(2), 6-2 victory in favor of Williams and Mboko.

Sarah, a devoted fan, has followed Williams for years, attending her final singles match at the US Open in 2022 and watching her play at Wimbledon for 14 consecutive years. She even owns a smashed Wilson racket from Williams’ 2016 third-round match against Laura Robson.

Williams impressed her audience by smoothly integrating herself into the game. As she served, her speed quickly increased from 93 mph to 113 mph, showcasing her signature powerful style. Her first winning point was announced with her familiar grunt, signaling her return to the sport.

Williams demonstrated her championship abilities throughout the match. Despite missing an early opportunity in the first set, she won an essential point with a drop shot. One of the most memorable cheers from the crowd came when she secured a game with a backhand flick, leading to a first set victory in a tiebreak.

I had so much fun playing with Vicky. She really was able to hold up the team and play big on the big points, and I could really rely on her. – Serena Williams

The announcement of Williams’ participation sparked excitement among her fans, leading many to London to witness her live. Sarah, who faced a tight schedule to catch her return flight, felt compelled to be part of this historical moment.

The crowd was filled with enthusiasm as Williams and Mboko practiced together prior to the match. Williams’ daughter, Olympia Ohanian, captured moments with a camera, illustrating the personal significance of this comeback, both for Williams and her children.

Fans experienced short glimpses of Williams practicing, with some, including Sarah, watching multiple times. They eagerly awaited her arrival on the court, a place where she made a swift exit amid the fans’ excitement.

During the match, the crowd offered unwavering support. Williams was joined by her daughters, Olympia and Adira, and her husband, Alexis Ohanian. The family was a visible part of the audience’s excitement as they cheered Williams and Mboko during the contest.

Throughout the match, Mboko shared smiles with Williams, reflecting camaraderie and support. Chosen by Williams to partner for this event, Mboko embraced the opportunity wholeheartedly.

It’s such a privilege to play beside you … We really did that out there. – Victoria Mboko

The match ended with a flurry of successful serves, cementing the pair’s straight-set win. Fans relished the return of Serena Williams, acclaimed as one of the greatest of all time. Williams’ collaboration with Mboko was instrumental in her victorious comeback.