The remarkable story of Venus Williams is set to continue this week, as she prepares to feature at the Washington Open.
The 45-year-old, who has not competed on the WTA Tour for 16 months, accepted a wild card invitation to compete at the Washington Open in July.
Venus, a seven-time Grand Slam singles champion, never officially announced her retirement from the sport, despite last playing the 2024 Miami Open in March last year.
Despite the injury issues and her autoimmune disease, Venus has proved yet again why she is such an inspiration to many, including Coco Gauff.
Ahead of the Washington Open, Venus spoke of her ‘scary’ health journey.
Venus Williams comments on her ‘scary’ health journey
Speaking to reporters ahead of her first round match in Washington, Venus was candid about her journey in recent years, noting how much things can change over the course of a year.
A reporter asked: “Were you ever worried about needing to retire? Or feared it might’ve been your only option after your injuries and health journey?”
Venus responded: “My health journey was very scary. This time a year ago I was preparing to go to surgery and there was no way for me to play tennis or play the US Open.
“Those things weren’t even on my mind, I was just trying to get healthy and then after that I just took that time… I wanted to try and play sooner, but I couldn’t.
“So, in any case, here I am. But things really change in a year. They really do.”
Venus Williams faces Peyton Stearns in the first round of Washington
Venus Williams has been handed a first round match against compatriot Peyton Stearns at the Washington Open.
The 23-year-old will provide a tough test for 45-year-old Williams. Stearns, ranked 35 in the world, enjoys playing on hard courts more than any other surface and will relish returning home to America just as much as Williams.
The winner of the contest will face either Yuliia Starodubtseva or fifth seed Magdalena Frech.
Williams is currently unranked but could shoot up the standings with victory over Stearns.
