2026 Australian Open: Venus Williams, Ekaterina Alexandrova out in women's doubles first round

Venus Williams and Ekaterina Alexandrova went out of the women’s doubles in the first round at the 2026 Australian Open on Tuesday (20 January).

In some close tennis on display, the pair were beaten by France’s Elsa Jacquemot and Colombia’s Emiliana Arango 7-6 (3), 6-4.

The opening set was an enthralling back-and-forth affair before Jacquemont/Arango clinched in a tiebreak.

Jacquemot and Arango got a foothold on the second set to push ahead and despite a valiant effort from the opposition, booked a place in the next round.

Williams was a wildcard entry to the tournament, becoming the oldest woman to compete in the singles main draw. Tuesday's loss marks the end of her journey Down Under.

More to follow…

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