Venus Williams Triumphs in Washington Doubles Match After Year Away

In a remarkable return to competitive tennis, Venus Williams, 45, achieved victory in her first tournament match in over a year at the DC Open in Washington, D.C., on July 22, 2025. This match also marked her first appearance in doubles since the 2022 U.S. Open, where she last partnered with her sister, Serena Williams. Partnering with Hailey Baptiste, Williams and her teammate secured a convincing 6-3, 6-1 win against former Wimbledon finalist Eugenie Bouchard and Clervie Ngounoue.

The match attracted significant attention, not only for Williams' storied career but also for notable spectators such as NBA star Kevin Durant, who arrived as the match progressed. Williams’ presence and performance drew enthusiastic support from the crowd at the 3,000-seat John Harris Court, where fans cheered her powerful serves and celebrated her return.

Williams expressed her mindset leading into the match, stating, "My personal goal is to have fun... and enjoy the moment, not put too much pressure on myself." She underscored her desire to perform at her best rather than focus solely on winning. This approach reflects her resilience, especially after facing health challenges that included a recent surgery to remove fibroids from her uterus, which she described as a significant obstacle in her career.

The significance of Williams' return extends beyond personal milestones; it highlights her status as a pioneer in women's tennis. According to Frances Tiafoe, a prominent American tennis player, "She’s one of the best athletes of all time. Her and her sister are so iconic. People are going to go crazy to see her." This sentiment resonates throughout the tennis community, as Williams’ contributions have laid the groundwork for future generations of female athletes.

The DC Open, an ATP and WTA sanctioned event, seeks to balance the scheduling demands of professional tennis while catering to broadcasting requirements. Tournament director Daniel Vallverdú commented on this balance, stating, "The tournament works to coordinate full singles and doubles ATP and WTA schedules."

Looking ahead, Williams is set to play against Peyton Stearns, a 23-year-old American ranked No. 35, in the singles competition. Stearns, who has previously won both NCAA singles and team championships at the University of Texas, represents a new generation of competitors. Reflecting on Williams' return to the court, Emma Navarro, a recent U.S. Open semifinalist, remarked, "She’s obviously a legend of the game. Good for her. She's sticking with it at her age."

Williams' journey underscores the evolving narrative of athletes in their mid-forties competing at high levels. Her return serves not only as an inspiration to countless fans but as a testament to the resilience and enduring spirit of professional athletes. As she continues her career, the tennis world watches with anticipation for what lies ahead for the iconic player who has redefined the sport for women around the globe.