At 45, Venus Williams continues to defy expectations. Her decision to compete in the US Open women’s doubles has reignited a spark many believed had dimmed.
Teaming up with Canadian star Leylah Fernandez, Williams powered through to the quarterfinals, defeating the 12th-seeded pair Ekaterina Alexandrova and Zhang Shuai in straight sets, 6-3, 6-4. The win marked her first Grand Slam quarterfinal appearance since Wimbledon 2017, and her first in doubles since 2016.
For fans, the sight of Venus deep in a Grand Slam draw was a throwback to the sport’s golden era. But for Venus, it wasn’t just about nostalgia or resilience, it was also about family.
After the match, she made an emotional public appeal to her sister and longtime doubles partner, Serena Williams. “She’s so happy for Leylah and me… she’s given us advice. We just need her in the box. My message is, Serena, you need to show up,” Venus said with a smile, evoking both sisterly affection and fan anticipation.
While Serena retired from professional tennis in 2022, her influence is still very present in her sister’s game. Venus shared that Serena has been coaching her from afar, offering tips, encouragement, and even videos from home where her daughters cheer on “Auntie V.”
It’s a dynamic that shows the bond between the sisters goes far beyond what the world witnessed on the court for over two decades.
A blend of generations
Venus’s partnership with Fernandez has also been a revelation. Known for always playing doubles alongside her sister, Venus found in Fernandez a kindred spirit. She even described Fernandez as the best partner she’s played with other than Serena, a compliment that left the young Canadian nearly speechless.
“That was the biggest compliment I’ve ever received,” Fernandez told reporters.
The pairing has proven potent. Entering the draw as wildcards, the duo hasn’t dropped a set yet and continues to build momentum. Their combination of youth and experience, strategy and athleticism, has been one of the tournament’s biggest storylines.
Yet, hovering over this impressive run is the question of Serena’s presence. Though unlikely to return to competition, especially as a mother of two, Serena has admitted she still misses the sport.
“There’s a part of me that will always miss tennis,” she said in an interview. “You wake up one day, and your goal is different. It’s a big change.”
Still, the hope for even a cameo, perhaps in the stands or in an exhibition match, remains alive. For now, Venus is carrying the Williams legacy forward, one thrilling match at a time.
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