Venus Williams will be back on the court at the Washington Open, where she’s been drawn against fellow American Peyton Stearns in the opening round.
Williams hasn’t played since March 2024, when she took part in both legs of the ‘Sunshine Double’.
The seven-time Grand Slam winner was knocked out in the first round at both Indian Wells and Miami.
Now 45, Williams has been given a wildcard entry into the D.C. event – a tournament that has so far eluded her during her career.
Venus Williams has a message for the WTA Tour
Speaking before her comeback, Williams sent out a message to the rest of the WTA Tour.
“I always felt a big responsibility towards promoting tennis and promoting women’s sports,” she said.
“I think that this generation can’t forget that. That women, we still have lots to fight for. An example to set. It’s so important.
“Of course, I am in love with tennis. So, to have the opportunity to have this platform to promote the game even now is a great opportunity.”
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Williams also spoke about her passion for the sport and what it means to play in front of fans, especially at tournaments such as Washington.
“I think when I go out there, I will definitely be trying to focus on me and not focusing on playing for the fans,” she added.
“I think in places like this, it’s probably the only places where I feel that way, so I will try and definitely keep the focus on me and what I am doing, but I know I will love playing here.”
When was Venus Williams’ last Washington Open appearance?
Williams’ most recent appearance in D.C. came back in 2022, not long after her mixed doubles run at Wimbledon with Jamie Murray.
She faced Rebecca Marino in her opening match, taking the first set but eventually losing to the Canadian.
Since then, Williams has made only a handful of appearances on tour and hasn’t returned to the US capital until now.
Her most recent Grand Slam outing was at the 2023 US Open, where she was knocked out in the first round.
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