Venus Williams and Leylah Fernandez’s US Open Doubles Run Ends in Quarterfinals

NEW YORK — Venus Williams and Leylah Fernandez’s inspiring journey at the 2025 US Open women’s doubles came to a close Tuesday night. The pair fell 6-1, 6-2 in the quarterfinals to top seeds Taylor Townsend and Katerina Siniakova at Louis Armstrong Stadium.

Townsend and Siniakova, the world’s No. 1 doubles team and reigning Australian Open champions, controlled the match from the start. Townsend’s powerful forehands combined with Siniakova’s sharp net play put Williams and Fernandez under constant pressure, forcing errors and giving the top seeds a quick 4-0 lead. They wrapped up the first set 6-1 with ease.

Despite the tough challenge, the 45-year-old Williams and 22-year-old Fernandez had reached the quarterfinals without dropping a set. Their impressive run, which included wins over seeded opponents, earned them standing ovations from New York fans who embraced the rare partnership of a tennis legend and a rising star.

The second set followed a similar script, with Townsend and Siniakova dominating on serve and extending rallies to their advantage. In under an hour, they closed out the match 6-2 to book their spot in the semifinals and end the Williams-Fernandez campaign.

Praise and Reflections

Though disappointed, Williams praised Fernandez and reflected on the experience.
“I was inspired by Leylah. She played incredible, both here and in D.C.,” Williams said in her post-match press conference. “Playing with her gave me so much confidence. It was an amazing experience.”

The seven-time Grand Slam champion added that the partnership reminded her of her love for the sport and the thrill of competing on tennis’s biggest stage.

Fernandez, a former US Open singles finalist, called teaming up with Williams the highlight of her season.
“I’m just like a sponge, taking everything in and trying to improve,” Fernandez said. “Seeing Venus bring joy to the court reminded me why I started playing: the love of the game, and for the fans.”

Looking Ahead

Williams confirmed she will refocus on singles for the rest of the year but said this doubles experience reignited her competitive drive.
“We played a great team. They’ve been together for years and had more time to pull it all together than we did. We wish them luck,” she said.

While their run ended earlier than hoped, both Williams and Fernandez left New York with renewed energy, gratitude, and the support of fans who celebrated their unique partnership.

FAQs

Q1: Who is Alex Eala?

Alex Eala is a 20-year-old Filipino tennis player, currently ranked world No. 68, known for her rising career on the WTA Tour.

Q2: Why did Alex Eala skip the Monterrey Open?

She skipped the Monterrey Open to fully focus on preparing for her debut in the US Open main draw.

Q3: When does the US Open start?

The US Open begins on August 24 at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in New York.

Q4: Has Alex Eala competed in a Grand Slam before?

Yes, but this will be her first main draw appearance in a women’s Grand Slam singles event.

Q5: What injury did Alex Eala recently recover from?

She was sidelined by a shoulder injury, which kept her out of the Cincinnati and Montreal Opens.

Q6: When was Alex Eala’s last official match?

Her last official match took place on July 28.

Q7: What tournament will Alex Eala play after the US Open?

She is scheduled to compete in the SP Open in São Paulo, Brazil, from Sept. 8 to 14.

Q8: Why is the SP Open in Brazil significant?

The SP Open marks the WTA’s return to Brazil after more than two decades.