‘They’ve Done So Much for This Sport’ – Canadian Open Tournament Director Hints at a Possible Last Appearance for Venus and Serena Williams

Legendary sister duo Venus and Serena Williams have reached the twilight of their incredible careers. With no Grand Slam titles in a long time and long intervals between tournaments, the two are definitely not at the top of their game. Earlier, they were absent for almost a year before making their return to the tour in the grass-court season. While they still are two of the most popular players, many consider that retirement is not too far away.

However, both of them have denied any such immediate plans. For now, they are focused on the American hard court season. While Venus made her first appearance of the hard court season in the Citi Open, Serena will make hers in Toronto.

As the two sisters arrive for the tournament in Canada, the tournament director of the Canadian Open has assured a great experience for the legends.

Are we seeing the Williams sisters in the Canadian Open for the last time?

Speaking before the start of the tournament, the director Karl Hale said they will provide the best experience for Serena and Venus. He also hinted that it might be the last time they will be playing in the tournament.

“The two of them have a really special place with me and I have a very close relationship with them. They’ve done so much for this sport and we want to give them a great (possibly) last experience in Toronto,” he said.

Further, he explained how Serena and Venus still enjoy a huge fan following in Canada. It has affected the sale of tickets as well.

Read more: ‘We Are off to Races..’ – Serena Williams Takes off on a Delicious Date With Her ‘Coolest’ Sister Venus

“The fans have reacted just incredibly since we announced that they’re playing, and ticket sales have gone through the roof. It’s just tremendous for us to have them here in Toronto,” he added.

Serena Williams starts her campaign today

Serena Williams will start her National Bank Open campaign today. She will clash with Spanish tennis star Nuria Parrizas-Diaz in the round of 64 match.

While Serena got a wild card entry to the tournament, Diaz made her way up after winning the first qualifier match. However, she lost the second match but entered the main rounds as a lucky loser.

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The 31-year-old Spaniard has never played against Serena in her career. Whoever wins will play the second round against either Belinda Bencic or Tereza Martincova.