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Venus Williams will return to professional tennis this week at the DC Open, marking her first match in 16 months. The 45-year-old American, who has won seven Grand Slam singles titles, has received a wildcard entry to the tournament in Washington, the opening event in the US Open hardcourt series.
Speaking ahead of her comeback, Williams said her focus is on the present and she remains uncertain about what the future holds. “I think I know what I want to do, but I don’t always want to talk about it,” she said. “Right now, I’m just here. Maybe there’s more to come, but for now I’m focused on this event.”
Williams will face fellow American Peyton Stearns, aged 23 and ranked 34th in the world, in her opening match. Stearns claimed her first WTA title last year on clay in Rabat.
The former world number one hasn’t competed since her early exit from the Miami Open in March 2023. She revealed that the past year had been dominated by serious health concerns, including surgery, which forced her out of competition.
“My health journey was very scary. A year ago, I was preparing for surgery, and tennis wasn’t even a possibility,” she said. “I’ve been through a lot physically, so to be back playing is a great opportunity.”
Williams said her current goal is simply to enjoy being on court again. “I want to have fun and live in the moment without putting pressure on myself,” she said. “For now, it’s about believing in myself and following my process, which isn’t easy after such a long layoff.”
Although she hasn’t lifted a trophy since her 2019 victory at the Taiwan Open, Williams is optimistic. “I still feel I can play well. I’m the same player — a big hitter. It’s about getting those big shots in the court. That’s my main aim,” she said.
Venus Williams, who has won Wimbledon five times and claimed the US Open twice, says she was inspired to return after attending this year’s Wimbledon as a spectator. The experience rekindled her passion for the sport.
“I was only at Wimbledon for a day, but it was so beautiful and energising,” she said. “I remembered everything I’ve been through in the game — the adrenaline, the joy. The challenge and the competition are still exciting to me.”
The Washington draw features other big names, including Japan’s Naomi Osaka, but Williams’ seven Grand Slam titles equal the combined tally of the rest of the field.
