Stephen A. Smith criticizes Venus and Serena's Wimbledon doubles plans
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 17, 2026, 4:36 PM
Last updated Jun 17, 2026
Stephen A. Smith expressed strong disapproval regarding Venus and Serena Williams teaming up for doubles at the 2026 Wimbledon Championships. While he admires both players, he voiced his preference for Serena to focus on singles, aiming for more Grand Slam titles. Smith's commentary included explicit language and indicated his lack of enthusiasm for doubles tennis. Historically, the Williams sisters have a successful doubles record, with 14 Grand Slam titles without a loss in finals. Despite Smith's perspective, Serena's participation is viewed positively for increasing interest in women's tennis.
- •Stephen A. Smith criticized the Williams sisters' doubles play at Wimbledon.
- •Smith wants Serena Williams to return to singles competition.
- •The Williams sisters have a 14-0 record in Grand Slam doubles finals.
- •Serena's return is seen as beneficial for women's tennis.
- •Smith used profanity in his on-air criticism of doubles tennis.
- 4:36 PMYahoo Sports — Stephen A. Smith shares profanity-laced opinion on Venus, Serena playing Wimbledon doubles
"ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith is a fan of both Venus Williams and Serena Williams. However, his tennis fandom does not extend to the discipline of doubles tennis as he is less than excited about the sisters playing doubles at the…
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