Venus Williams and Jamie Murray bow out of Wimbledon mixed doubles in final set tie-break

The Venus Williams and Jamie Murray show is no more. In the end, it was an enthralling final set tie-break which saw their doubles adventure snuffed out by all-British pair Jonny O’Mara and Alicia Barnett on Sunday evening.

Tennis is a game of fine margins and under the milky evening sunshine at SW19, O’Mara and Barnett celebrated wildly after clinching the dramatic decider 18-16 to power through 6-3, 4-6, 6-7 into the mixed doubles quarter-finals. 

It could have panned out differently had a Barnett backhand return not dribbled over the net - to the agony of Murray and Williams as they led 15-14 - which was one of five match points the duo saw go begging. It was also one of a litany of crunch moments that had a Court Two crowd utterly captivated.

The result means Williams and Murray will not emulate their famous siblings, Serena and Andy, who memorably reached the third round at the All England Club three years ago.

Earlier in the week, five-time singles champion Williams had rebuffed a reporter who questioned whether the pair’s aim was to simply better their siblings’ run in the tournament. “What kind of a question is that?” Williams asked.

Judging by the drama that played out, Williams’ and Murray’s fighting spirit was clear to see after they took the opening set comfortably, before O’Mara and Barnett showed great tenacity to claw back in the second.

There was nothing to separate the pairs in the nervy, final set tie-break that ensued, which passed by in a blur of stunning reflexes, formidable winners and gutsy returns. It all ended with a rapturous ovation for O’Mara and Bennett, with the latter visibly elated at having conquered one of tennis’ greatest champions who is still going strong at 42 despite not having