Williams makes comeback after 16-month absence

Venus Williams made a strong return to professional tennis after a 16-month hiatus, beginning her comeback at the Washington Open with a decisive doubles victory.

The 45-year-old American partnered with rising star Hailey Baptiste to defeat Eugenie Bouchard and Clervie Ngounoue 6-3, 6-1 in the round of 16, advancing to the quarterfinals in the women’s doubles event.

Williams’ last competitive match had been in March 2024 at the Miami Open, after which she took an extended break due to significant health challenges. She underwent surgery to remove a fibroid that had been affecting both her career and personal life for years.

She noted that preparing for this tournament was “night and day” compared to preparing for surgery just a year earlier.

Her return comes with a focus on enjoyment and self-belief rather than results. Williams has stated that her personal goal is “to have fun and enjoy the moment,” pointing out that success now is more about trusting in her process after recovering from health setbacks than chasing titles. She still remains confident in her game and her abilities as a star player.

Although doubles is not her preferred discipline, Williams praised her young partner’s experience, stating that Baptiste’s consistent play throughout the year helped the team find cohesion early on.

Williams joked that teaming up with Baptiste was a partnership that should have started years ago, adding that her sister Serena’s presence might have delayed this pairing despite their legendary history together in doubles.

In addition to doubles, Williams is set to return to singles competition at the Washington Open, facing 23-year-old American Peyton Stearns in the main court’s night feature match. Stearns is ranked 34th worldwide and earned attention with a 2023 title in Rabat, setting up a challenging match for Williams as she tests her form.

Looking ahead, Venus Williams has announced plans to compete in the upcoming US Open mixed doubles event alongside Reilly Opelka, marking her first Grand Slam appearance since her return to the tour.

This move will further signal her intentions to remain active in the professional circuit despite her lengthy break.