Venus Williams/X
Venus Williams/X

Venus Williams returned to professional tennis at the 2025 DC Open after a 16-month hiatus, prompting speculation about whether this could mark the end of her legendary career. At 45 years old, Williams is competing in Washington on a wild card entry, just over a year after undergoing surgery for uterine fibroids.

A Comeback After Health Challenges

Williams had not appeared on a WTA court since the 2024 Miami Open. Her absence was largely due to ongoing health concerns, including a surgical procedure in July 2024 to remove uterine fibroids. The condition, which she has managed for years alongside an autoimmune diagnosis of Sjögren's syndrome, significantly affected her ability to train and compete.

Now, having recovered, the seven-time Grand Slam champion is back on the court. She made her return in doubles, partnering with fellow American Hailey Baptiste. The pair secured a commanding first-round win, defeating Eugenie Bouchard and Clervie, Ngounoue 6–3, 6–1, at the Mubadala Citi DC Open.

Singles Return and Record-Breaking Potential

In addition to her doubles appearance, Williams is set to play singles against 23-year-old Peyton Stearns. Should she win, Williams would become the oldest woman to win a WTA singles match since Martina Navratilova in 2004. The historic implications of this performance have added to the buzz surrounding her presence at the tournament.

The DC Open is being closely watched by fans and media alike, with many questioning whether this will be her final professional appearance. Though no formal retirement has been announced, the lack of scheduled events beyond Washington has fuelled widespread speculation.

Focused on Enjoyment, Not Titles

Speaking to reporters ahead of the tournament, Williams revealed that her priorities have shifted.

'My personal goal is to have fun and enjoy the moment, not put too much pressure on myself', she said on Sunday, as reported by Reuters.

She declined to outline future plans, saying she prefers to 'hold my cards tight'. Despite the uncertainty, Williams appeared in high spirits and ready to compete, showing little sign of pressure.

Missing Serena, Hoping for a Reunion

Williams also addressed her sister Serena Williams's absence from the sport. Serena retired in 2022 but recently appeared in a video hitting tennis balls again, prompting fan theories about a possible return.

'I keep saying to my team: The only thing that would make this better is if she was here', Williams said, per Associated Press. 'Like, we always did everything together, so of course I miss her'. She also revealed that Serena Williams recently joined her in one of her practice sessions for about 15 to 20 minutes. However, she also clarified that should her sister decide to come back, 'I'm sure she'll let y'all know'.

Venus Williams Career Stats: A Look at Her Tennis Legacy

Williams has been a professional athlete since 1994 and has achieved some of the most notable milestones in tennis history. Her career includes 49 WTA singles titles, five Wimbledon championships, two US Open wins, and 14 Grand Slam doubles titles, most of them alongside Serena Williams. She has also won five Olympic medals, including four golds.

If the DC Open does prove to be her last WTA tournament, she will leave behind a career that helped define an era of women's tennis. For now, all eyes are on Washington to see what the next chapter holds.

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