Venus Williams is returning to tennis after a long time, motivated solely by her lasting "love for the sport" – and maybe, a subtle wish that her sister Serena could also be drawn back.
Following a 16-month break, the 45-year-old is preparing to take part in the 2025 Citi DC Open, marking her first competition since the 2024 Miami Open, where she was defeated in straight sets by Diana Shnaider. She hasn't secured a singles victory since the 2023 Cincinnati Masters and spent most of the past year rehabbing from a persistent knee injury. However, for Venus, coming back to the court is not about seeking victories.
Why not?" said the seven-time Grand Slam champion with a smile upon being asked why she was returning. "This time I had been hitting the ball. And naturally, I love the game, and the hard courts—it's my favorite surface, where I feel most at ease. So, all these different reasons.
Venus will compete against Peyton Stearns in the first round in Washington, marking their first encounter. Although much of the focus will be on her return, the attention hasn't been solely hers. Serena Williams, the younger of the legendary sisters and a 23-time Grand Slam champion, was recently seen practicing, sparking rumors that she might also contemplate making a comeback to the sport she ruled for two decades.
Serena officially ended her career at the 2022 US Open, yet Venus, always open to possibilities, indicated that her sister might not have finished playing. "I believe there's still some fire left," she mentioned casually, without offering any definite assurance.
While she was not on the tour, Venus tried her hand at commentary, becoming part of TNT Sports' team covering the French Open. Looking back on the experience, she said it was both fun and stressful.
I believe it's quite simple to say something inappropriate, which I understood while I was on live television," she mentioned. "I found myself thinking, 'Just be cautious. Avoid saying the wrong thing. Don't be overly opinionated,' since I have numerous views, some of which might not be well-supported. Therefore, I'm pleased I managed to escape without facing any backlash!
However, tennis is where her true passion lies. "As a young person, I wanted to play the sport, become a champion. I loved the game deeply, I didn't realize it would be so much more than just myself," she mentioned.
And witnessing these young women making positive contributions to their lives, winning competitions, and motivating the next generation as well, it's something I could never have imagined. So, it's like the perfect addition, the cherry on top with all the nuts and extras. It's wonderful.
For the time being, Venus has returned. And if her excitement is any indication, there could still be a Williams sisters moment worth watching.
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