45-year-old Venus Williams created history on July 22 by becoming the second-oldest woman to win a WTA Tour-level singles match. She defeated Peyton Stearns in straight sets, 6-3, 6-4, in the opening round of the 2025 Washington Open.
The seven-time Grand Slam singles champion returned to action after a 16-month hiatus, securing her first singles victory since her win in Cincinnati in 2023.
Speaking after the win, Williams expressed her excitement and passion during the post-match interview. She said she still has the same hunger and desire to win as before.
“I think I just attacked the whole time. It’s just trying to find the right balance between going too hard and not enough. It’s the same because this is what I do, but at the same time, at the time it was imperative for me to do it. Now I don’t have to do this, but I have the same fire and the same want to win,” Williams said.
Williams admitted that getting back into the rhythm of regular match play is still a work in progress but remains optimistic. “In some ways, I’m still getting back into that. When you do it every day, everything is natural. Not as natural feeling now, but I hope I can get back to that,” she added.
Despite the convincing scoreline, Williams acknowledged the emotional and physical challenge of returning to the court after more than a year.
“I think it was a big win for me today. Like I said, it’s not easy. It won’t be easy. It’s not easy for anyone out here. So I know I’ll have to fight for every match, but I’m up for that,” she concluded.
Williams will next face Poland’s fifth seed, Magdalena Frech, in the second round on Friday, 25 July.
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