Venus Williams Returns to Tennis with Doubles Win at DC Open
Seven-time Grand Slam champion Venus Williams made a sensational return to competitive tennis on Monday, clinching a doubles victory at the WTA and ATP DC Open after a 16-month hiatus. The 45-year-old American teamed up with compatriot Hailey Baptiste to defeat Canada’s Eugenie Bouchard and U.S. teen Clervie Ngounoue 6-3, 6-1 in their first-round match.
Reflecting on her return, Williams expressed her excitement, saying, “After the match, Hailey asked me, ‘How did that feel?’ It’s probably even harder to play doubles first because I’m not a doubles player.” She praised Baptiste’s experience, noting, “She served first because she has been playing all year and playing well. I think that helped me a lot.”
This comeback is particularly significant for Williams, who spent much of the past year focused on her health and recovery from surgery. “Where I am at this year is so much different from where I was last year. It’s night and day,” she said. “It’s just nice to be able to play.”
As about 3,000 fans, including NBA star Kevin Durant, cheered from the stands, Williams and Baptiste showcased a strong performance. Williams shared a light moment with Baptiste post-match, saying, “I want to show KD what I can do. Hit the ball to me.”
Williams will return to singles action on Tuesday, facing American Peyton Stearns in a highly anticipated night match. Bouchard, who is set to retire next week, expressed her admiration for Williams, stating, “To play against her one last time is fun and special. I have nothing but respect for her. She’s such a legend.”
For Williams, the joy of returning to the court is a victory in itself. “I just want to be healthy. Tennis is a game, it’s our life, but it doesn’t really matter if your health is not there,” she said, emphasizing the importance of perspective in her journey back to the sport.
