At almost 45, Venus Williams became the oldest competitor to return to the professional tour in more than 26 years. She won the hearts of the crowd at the DC Open with her starburst twirl after winning her match. This victory is her first on the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) Tour since August 2023. It happens just 16 months after surgery to remove fibroids growing in her uterus, a diagnosis that had long ravaged both her professional and personal life for years.
Williams, a seven-time Grand Slam singles champion, is a 14-time Grand Slam doubles champion. All those doubles slams came with her sister, Serena Williams. She showed her incredible talent and toughness fighting back alongside Hailey Baptiste. How cool is that, they made it to the women’s doubles tournament quarter finals! In their first match of the round of 16, they crushed Clervie Ngounoue and Eugenie Bouchard, a former Wimbledon finalist, 6-3, 6-1.
To get ready for the tournament, Williams had also previously accepted wild cards to play in both singles and doubles. She will open singles play against America’s Peyton Stearns. This will be her first singles match — officially — since stepping on court for real in March 2024. She has advanced before, but it may be surprising to remember that her last doubles contest was almost three years ago.
Williams said she felt thankful for her health and ability to compete.
“It’s just nice to be able to play.” – Venus Williams
She highlighted the difference between what she is experiencing this year compared to last year saying,
“Where I am at this year is so much different where I was at last year. It’s night and day, being able to be here and prepare for the tournament as opposed to preparing for surgery a year ago.” – Venus Williams
Williams commented on working alongside Baptiste, saying their on-screen connection was evident immediately.
“I think, from the first point, I could see that we were going to be a good team. We just should have started playing earlier, years ago, right? I think Serena was just in the way.” – Venus Williams
Williams returns to the spotlight motivated by an intense desire to achieve success on the court. More than that, though, she acts as a powerful inspiration for other athletes who are going through their own challenges. Her experience and journey, like her games, has been nothing short of spectacular, showcasing her perseverance and passion for the game.
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