Tennis: Venus Williams Returns to the Court at 45

Venus Williams accepted the organizers' invitation to compete in the Washington Open because she— who won 14 Major titles with her sister Serena —is no longer ranked. She hadn't played a doubles match in three years, and her victory, at 45, against American compatriot Hailey Baptiste (23, half her age), over Eugenie Bouchard and Clervie Ngounoue (6-3, 6-1), caused a sensation.

His last singles match dates back 16 months (Miami Open, March 2024) and his last victory was at the Cincinnati Open in August 2023. "It was inspiring to be here," he rejoiced. "I love this sport and I continue to give my best."

Although Venus has nothing to prove on the court: her list of achievements includes seven Grand Slam titles and four Olympic gold medals. Over the years, she has become a legend, a paragon of longevity.

This return to competition is an unexpected challenge for the elder Williams sister, who has suffered for many years from uterine fibroids, benign tumors that sometimes cause severe pain. "My health journey has been very challenging," she recently admitted, revealing the ordeal before the surgery she underwent a year ago. At the time, "it wasn't about playing tennis or playing the US Open; I didn't even have those things in mind. I was just trying to stay healthy."

Thanks to her impressive athleticism, powerful shots, endless rallies, and winning serves, Venus quickly revolutionized the women's tour. Her game, adapted to both hard and grass courts, has allowed her to win five Wimbledon titles (2000, 2001, 2005, 2007, 2008) and two US Open titles (2000, 2001).

Not enough, however, to completely lift her out of the shadow cast by the even greater Serena, a true tennis legend with 23 Grand Slam titles. Despite this, people in Washington are lining up at the box office to see Venus, the former world No. 1, back in action.

Between fashion shows, a women's clothing brand, and Instagram tips , she's now living a second life. She'll also enter the singles draw against Peyton Stearns (world No. 35), unsure exactly how far her adventure will go.

"I have no doubt I can play, but obviously it takes time to find the rhythm," 'Queen V' repeats. "I feel like I can play well." The winning formula hasn't changed: "You have to hit hard and get the ball down the court. I'll try to do that: get it down the court."