Serena Williams and Ons Jabuer’s journey at the Rothesay International met an abrupt end after world No.4, Jabeur, suffered an injury to her right knee. As a result, team Williams/Jabeur have sadly been forced to retire from the tournament.  

These two trailblazers may be known for their contrasting styles of play, but combined they formed a harmonious blend of power and creativity. Despite joining forces for the first time, and what seemed to be cautious play from the American early on, the two greats soon found their grass legs as they came through a titanic tussle in the first round to overcome the reigning Istanbul champions, Marie Bouzkova and Sara Sorribes Tormo.

Relishing on the surface that holds such fond memories for the 23-time Grand Slam champion, the American/Tunisian duo headed into the second round beaming with confidence as they defeated Shuko Aoyama and Hao-Ching Chan in a Serena special straight-sets masterclass.

Following their second round triumph, the former world No.1 and the current world No.3 were set to go head-to-head with Aleksandra Krunic and Magda Linette for their semi-final clash, but due to their retirement, their opponents now find themselves in their first ever final together.