Venus Williams has etched her name in the annals of tennis history once again by becoming the second-oldest woman to win a tour-level singles match. At 45, Williams triumphed over her compatriot, 22-year-old Peyton Stearns, with a 6-3, 6-4 victory at the DC Open, marking her as the oldest winner on the WTA tour since Martina Navratilova in 2004.
This victory is particularly significant as it is Williams’ first singles win in nearly two years. The only woman older than her to achieve such a feat was Navratilova, who won a match at 47. Reflecting on her performance, Williams commented, “It is not easy to [come back] after all that time and play the perfect match.”
Overcoming Challenges and Making a Comeback
The former world number one had been absent from singles play since March 2024 due to surgery for uterine fibroids. Her last singles win was in August 2023 in Cincinnati. Until recently, Williams was listed as “inactive” by the WTA Tour and did not hold a ranking.
Williams also revealed an unexpected motivation behind her return: health insurance. “I had to come back for the insurance because they informed earlier this year I’m on COBRA,” she explained. “So I was like, ‘I’ve got to get my benefits,’ [and] started training.”
A Display of Skill and Determination
Williams, backed by a supportive crowd at the hard-court tournament in Washington, D.C., showcased her renowned skills that have earned her seven Grand Slam singles titles. In her match against the 35th-ranked Stearns, she delivered a series of powerful returns and aces, including nine serves clocking over 177 kilometers per hour.
Her performance was a testament to her enduring talent, with Williams taking control early in the match by breaking Stearns’ serve and maintaining the lead to close the first set. Her victory advances her to a second-round match against Poland’s Magdalena Frech, the tournament’s number five seed.
Historical Parallels and Future Prospects
Williams’ achievement draws parallels to Martina Navratilova’s historic win in 2004, highlighting the longevity and resilience of elite athletes in women’s tennis. Navratilova, like Williams, defied age expectations, proving that experience and skill can triumph over youth.
Williams’ return to form also includes success in doubles, where she partnered with fellow American Hailey Baptiste. The duo is set to face Australian Open champions Taylor Townsend and Zhang Shuai in their next match.
“I’m always at the doctor so I need this insurance,” Williams said, underscoring the practical challenges athletes face off the court.
Looking Ahead
As Williams continues her journey at the DC Open, her comeback story serves as an inspiration to many, illustrating the power of perseverance and passion in overcoming personal and professional hurdles. Her performance not only adds another chapter to her illustrious career but also sets the stage for potential future successes.
The tennis world will be watching closely as Venus Williams continues to defy expectations and inspire both fans and fellow athletes with her remarkable resilience and determination.
