"It was Serena's idea, she's the boss" - Venus Williams on decision to play doubles with her sister at the US Open

Former World No.1 Venus Williams has stated that it was her sister Serena Williams' idea for the pair to take part in the women's doubles at the 2022 US Open.

Two-time champions at the US Open, the Williams sisters received a wild card entry into the doubles a few days ago. The 14-time Slam doubles champions will be teaming up for the first time since 2018 Roland Garros.

Venus made a quick exit in the singles category, going down 6-1, 7-6(5) to Alison Van Uytvanck on Tuesday. Speaking at her post-match press conference, Venus touched upon the upcoming doubles campaign for the sisters.

Yeah, it [playing in the doubles] was Serena's idea. She's the boss, so do whatever she tells me to do," said Venus with a smile. "I don't think we have played since 2016, but might be getting that wrong. We have had some great wins. It would be nice to add some more."

With Serena announcing her plans to retire from the sport last month, Venus opened up about the sisters' influence on each other and the support they give one another.

"We're a huge influence on each other, and I'm a huge influence on her," disclosed the WTA legend. "For me, I just kind of felt like my role is to make sure I don't influence her in any way, and that this decision needs to be all hers and her family's. The newest part of the family, I guess I would say, because obviously we are family. I think that's the role I play is definitely support with everyone else in my family."

Serena Williams and Venus Williams are scheduled to face the Czech team of Lucie Hradecká and Linda Noskova in the first round.