Tennis icon Venus Williams, at 45 years old, made history by becoming the second-oldest player ever to win a tour-level match, marking a triumphant return to the court.
A Historic Comeback
Nearly two years passed between Venus Williams’ 818th and 819th career victories. Stepping back onto the professional circuit in Washington, D.C., after a 15-month hiatus following surgery, expectations for the veteran star were initially modest.
However, Williams defied those expectations on Tuesday. She defeated 23-year-old Peyton Stearns, a player born after Williams had already secured four of her seven Grand Slam titles. This remarkable win not only shattered records but also confirmed that for Williams, merely participating is never enough; she’s here to win.
More Than Just Showing Up
Her return to the DC Open, after last playing in April 2024, certainly turned heads. Powering past Stearns with a 6-3, 6-4 victory, Williams proved her competitive spirit and powerful game are still very much alive. This singles win followed a successful doubles return just a day earlier, cementing her fierce desire to compete.
“I’m just trying to figure out how many wins will it take before I’m off COBRA,” Williams joked on court after her win, referencing health insurance. This lighthearted comment underscored her determination to keep earning those victories.
Battling Doubts and Recovery
Williams later admitted to the doubts that have plagued her during her 18-month comeback journey. She revealed that training often felt like a mental battle, oscillating between progress and setbacks. “It’s all a head game,” she shared, emphasizing her goal to play well and win.
Until recently, the WTA Tour listed Williams as “inactive” following surgery for uterine fibroids last year. Yet, the crowd in Washington witnessed not just resilience, but a full exhibition of the skills that forged her legendary reputation.
Inside the Match
Williams took a moment to find her rhythm, dropping her first serve. But she quickly settled in, unleashing her signature big hitting and booming groundstrokes. She served nine aces, some reaching an impressive 177 kmph, and showed aggressive returns, putting constant pressure on Stearns.
After falling behind early, Williams won four of the next five games to secure the first set. The second set saw traded breaks until 3-3, when Williams elevated her game, breaking serve and earning match points. Despite some rustiness in closing out the match initially, she served out the victory in style.
Looking Ahead
As she prepares for her next challenge against World No. 24 Magdalena Frech, Williams remains clear-eyed about the road ahead. “It’s not easy. It won’t be easy,” she stated. “It’s not easy for anyone out here. So I know I’ll have to fight for every match. But I’m up for that.”
- Venus Williams, 45, is now the second-oldest player to win a tour-level match, behind Martina Navratilova.
- This win marks her first singles victory since August 2023, following a 15-month hiatus and surgery.
- Williams defeated 23-year-old Peyton Stearns, a player born after Williams had won multiple Grand Slam titles.
- Her performance showcased powerful aces, aggressive groundstrokes, and a fierce competitive drive, proving she’s playing to win.
Williams’ return signals a continued, inspiring chapter for one of tennis’s greatest champions, ready to face any challenge.
