The fascinating doubles pairing of Victoria Mboko and Serena Williams at Queen’s has unfortunately been brought to an abrupt end.
Williams paired with Mboko at the WTA 500 tournament for her first match in almost four years, with the duo triumphing in their opener.
But their quarterfinal has unfortunately been ruled a walkover after Mboko suffered a knee injury during her first singles match.
The Canadian slipped during her encounter with Karolina Pliskova, and was forced to retire hurt because of the nasty fall.
The extent of the injury she has suffered at Queen’s remains to be seen, but her doubles partner Williams has now sent her WTA counterpart a heartfelt message after the incident.
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Serena Williams messages Victoria Mboko after Queen’s injury
Sharing images of their time at Queen’s, Williams posted on her Instagram: “Some moments mean more than trophies.
“What a fun and memorable week at [Queen’s].
“Thank you to everyone who made it so special.
“Wishing you a speedy recovery, [Victoria Mboko].
“Can’t wait to see you back on court.”
Williams then added on her Instagram story: “[Victoria Mboko], you’re an incredible talent, and you’ll be back out there in no time.
“Wishing you a speedy recovery.”
It’s a classy touch from Williams, who will be disappointed not to be able to continue her remarkable return to the sport.
But she is admirably focusing on the health of rising star Mboko instead, showing her permanent class off the court.
Tennis fans miss out on exciting Serena Williams and Victoria Mboko pairing
While Mboko looks set for some time away from tennis, Williams does not need to wait long until her next outing.
The 44-year-old will also play doubles in Berlin next week, continuing her spell on grass with Karolina Muchova.
It is, however, a real shame for all concerned parties that Mboko will not be able to continue her partnership alongside her idol.
The duo gave Queen’s fans plenty to cheer about in their win over Erin Routliffe and Nicole Melichar-Martinez, who they impressively beat 7-6(7-2), 6-2.
That set up a quarterfinal clash with Laura Siegemund and Leylah Fernandez, who are now automatically into the semifinals.
Williams wasn’t exactly perfect in her first match back, but she certainly showed enough to suggest that a lengthy run was possible, in which Mboko would have played an equally crucial role.
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