In a sport that’s often dominated by the younger generation, Venus Williams is once again rewriting the rules and the record books.
On a humid evening in Washington, D.C., the 45-year-old tennis icon defeated rising American talent Peyton Stearns 6-3, 6-4, marking her first singles victory since 2023. With the win, Venus becomes the oldest WTA match winner since the legendary Martina Navratilova, who won at age 47 back in 2004.
Unranked and returning to competition after 16 months away from the tour, many would have expected Venus to quietly bow out of the game she once ruled. But for her, the fire hasn’t gone out, well, not even close.
“I had to come back for the insurance,” Venus joked after the match. “They informed me this year that I’m on COBRA. So it’s like, I got to get my benefits on.”
Williams, who has won seven Grand Slam singles titles and inspired generations of players, looked sharp and composed as she beat her younger opponent in straight sets.
She credits part of her return to the encouragement of her fiancée, who was present in the stands. “My fiancée is here. He really encouraged me to keep playing,” she said. “Do you know how hard it is to play tennis? It’s 9 to 5 except you’re running the whole time.”
While she might not be chasing rankings or titles the way she once did, Venus continues to play for something more personal. Her comeback win is a testament to not just longevity, but love for the sport.
It’s been nearly three decades since Venus first stepped onto the pro tour, and yet, her presence still draws awe. With this latest victory, Venus joins rare company, standing right beside Navratilova in a club only the greatest can enter.
Whether or not this is the start of a bigger comeback, Venus Williams reminded everyone why her name is etched into tennis history. And what an honor it is to witness her write one more chapter.