In a surprising twist, doubts have emerged regarding the much-anticipated doubles partnership between Ons Jabeur and Venus Williams at the upcoming Jasmin Open in Monastir. Despite earlier announcements suggesting their participation, recent developments have cast a shadow of uncertainty over their doubles venture.
The excitement initially revolved around the official announcement from the Jasmin Open organization, declaring, “The countdown has officially started for Jasmin Open in Monastir (250 points) from October 14 to 22, Ons Jabeur & Venus Williams will be with us.”
However, questions have surfaced regarding their participation. The Tennis Letter expressed its skepticism, “But when you look at the official acceptance list, neither of them are anywhere to be found. Also, Ons is currently in Zhengzhou & has her first match scheduled for tomorrow. Monastir’s main draw starts on October 16th.”
Ons Jabeur & Venus Williams might not be playing in Monastir after all.
The Tunisian Tennis Federation made the announcement that they would both be playing the tournament.
“The countdown has officially started for Jasmin Open in Monastir (250 points) from October 14 to 22,… pic.twitter.com/4wx9vCrGws
— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) October 10, 2023
It further added, “With the WTA Finals coming up & Ons already dealing with so many injuries this year, this seems very odd.” Venus also has been battling with recurring injuries that have kept her out of the tour for most of the 2023 season.
While both players have yet to comment on these developments, it appears that injuries and scheduling challenges may risk their much-anticipated doubles partnership at the Jasmin Open. Earlier in the year Ons had partnered with the other Williams, Serena for a doubles event at Eastbourne.
Injury-plagued season puts Ons Jabeur and Venus Williams’ doubles in doubt
In 2023, both Ons Jabeur and Venus Williams faced a tough season due to injuries, casting doubt on their doubles partnership. Ons Jabeur, a Tunisian tennis sensation, grappled with a series of physical setbacks, including a knee injury that led to her withdrawal from the National Bank Open in Canada.
During a match in Ohio against Aryna Sabalenka, a physiotherapist had to address her right foot discomfort and later taped it up. Despite her victory in Charleston, Jabeur’s momentum came to a halt due to a calf injury while facing Swiatek in Stuttgart.
Ons Jabeur was being seen by the physio in her match with Aryna Sabalenka.
Her right foot was taped up by the physio. She looked uncomfortable after running for a ball.
Hopefully it’s nothing too serious.
We don’t need any big injuries before the US Open 🙏🏼❤️ pic.twitter.com/3DmsIHQfqH
— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) August 19, 2023
Venus Williams, a seven-time Grand Slam champion, experienced her own injury woes throughout the year. A hamstring injury early in the season forced her to skip the Australian Open. Upon her return, a knee injury during Wimbledon significantly affected her performance.
Although she secured a victory at the Western and Southern Open, her knee troubles resurfaced during a match against Zheng Qinwen, leading to her withdrawal from the Cleveland WTA event right before the US Open.