Venus Williams becomes the second oldest woman to win a WTA Tour-level singles match
Tennis legend Venus Williams is making headlines again, this time for an incredible comeback at the age of 45. After more than a year away from the sport, she has not only returned to the court but also confirmed that she will compete in the 2025 US Open, one of the most prestigious tennis tournaments in the world.
Venus recently competed at the DC Open in Washington, D.C., where she secured her first singles victory in 16 months. She defeated 23-year-old American Peyton Stearns with a score of 6-3, 6-4.
This victory was extra special, not just because it marked her return, but because it made her the second-oldest woman in tennis history to win a tour-level singles match. The only woman older than Venus to do this is the great Martina Navratilova, who won a singles match at the age of 47 in 2004.
Asked if she felt satisfaction in proving people wrong, she said: “No, because I’m not here for anyone else except for me.”
“I have nothing to prove. Zip. Zero.”I’m here for me because I want to be here. And proving anyone wrong or thinking about anyone has never gotten me a win and has never gotten me a loss.”
Williams, a former world number one, had won four Grand Slam titles by the time Stearns was born in 2001.
“She played some ball tonight,” Stearns said.
“She was moving really well, which I wasn’t expecting too much, honestly. Her serves were just on fire.”
Williams will face Polish fifth seed Magdalena Frech in the second round.
Williams Legacy That Keeps Growing 7 Grand Slam singles titles, 14 Grand Slam doubles titles (many with her sister Serena), 5 Olympic medals
Now, at 45, she continues to break barriers and inspire millions. Her return is a powerful message that age is not a limit when passion, talent, and determination come together.
Venus Williams’ return at 45 is more than just a comeback, it’s a celebration of resilience, strength, and love for the game. By making history once again, she proves that true champions never stop inspiring, no matter their age.
