Venus Williams’ last match came at the 2024 Miami Open. From that moment, speculation grew over whether the 45-year-old tennis legend would stage a true comeback. That return finally arrived in Cincinnati this week. She began in doubles and, on Wednesday, July 22, played singles, defeating 23-year-old Peyton Stearns in straight sets – a performance that reminded everyone of the level she still possesses.
With this victory over the world No. 35, Venus became the oldest woman to win a WTA match since Martina Navratilova did so at 47 in 2004. The seven-time Grand Slam champion entered the Cincinnati tournament via a wildcard. Prior to Wednesday’s match, Venus had not competed since that Miami appearance in 2024.
After defeating Stearns, Williams made it clear that her return was motivated purely by personal reasons.
No, because I’m not here for anyone else except for me, and I also have nothing to prove. Zip, zero. I’m here for me because I want to be here. And proving anyone wrong or thinking about anyone has never gotten me a win and has never gotten me a loss.
Her statement clarified why she chose to return: no external pressures, no desire to impress others – just a personal decision.
This context sheds light on the timing. Sixteen months had passed since her last match, but she never announced retirement. The WTA had listed her as “inactive.” Earlier this year, she even declined a wildcard for Indian Wells, opting instead to try her hand as a commentator at Roland Garros.
Fans kept wondering about her return
Although she never confirmed a comeback, her Instagram posts showed intense training sessions and powerful serves, suggesting she remained in shape and could return whenever she wished.
No one has put in the work for me. I put in the work. So it doesn’t matter what anyone says. It doesn’t stop the work that I have put in. It doesn’t stop my belief. Even if people are saying amazing things, it still doesn’t help you win. I really just try to focus on myself and not think about anything else.
Last year, she battled a knee injury along with other health issues, including fibroids and adenomyosis.
My symptoms were extreme pain. You know, getting so much in pain that maybe you throw up. Or you can’t get off the ground.
The condition, in which uterine tissue invades the uterine wall, significantly complicated her recovery.
In humorous fashion, Venus joked about her comeback:
I had to return for the insurance, this year they told me I’m on COBRA. So I was like, I need to get those benefits going! I got back to training. You all know how it is, and let me tell you, I’m always at the doctor, so I definitely need that insurance.
Now back on tour, Venus aims to compete at a high level despite lingering health challenges and the stiff competition ahead.
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