WASHINGTON — Tennis legend Venus Williams made a triumphant return to competition at the Mubadala Citi DC Open in Washington, D.C., defeating Switzerland’s Viktorija Golubic 6-3, 6-2 in her first singles match since January. At 45 years old, Williams showcased her enduring skill and charisma, but it was her post-match revelation about her motivation that stole the show.
A Hilarious Reason for the Comeback
When asked what inspired her return to the court, Williams delivered a punchline that left fans and reporters laughing. "Honestly, I was tired of people asking me when I was retiring," she quipped. "So I thought, ‘Let’s give them something else to talk about.’" The seven-time Grand Slam champion, known for her wit, added, "Plus, my sister Serena keeps telling me I’ve got more in the tank. I figured I’d prove her right."
A Dominant Performance
Williams, who received a wildcard entry into the tournament, displayed flashes of her vintage self against Golubic. Her powerful serve and aggressive baseline play were on full display, reminding fans why she remains one of the sport’s most iconic figures. Key highlights included:
- A first-serve percentage of 68%, including four aces
- Winning 78% of net points, showcasing her tactical versatility
- Breaking Golubic’s serve three times in the second set
Williams’ victory marked her first singles win since the 2023 Wimbledon Championships, where she reached the second round. "It’s always special to win, no matter how many times you’ve done it," she reflected.
The Road Ahead
Next up for Williams is a second-round clash with 16th-ranked Qinwen Zheng of China. When asked about her expectations, Williams remained characteristically upbeat. "I’m here to compete, have fun, and maybe remind a few people that age is just a number," she said with a smile.
A Legacy That Keeps Growing
Williams’ return isn’t just about adding to her trophy cabinet—it’s about inspiring the next generation. Fellow players, including Coco Gauff, praised her resilience. "Venus is proof that passion doesn’t have an expiration date," Gauff told reporters.
The Bigger Picture
Williams’ comeback also highlights her enduring influence on the sport. Beyond her on-court achievements, she has been a trailblazer for gender equality and diversity in tennis. Her presence in Washington serves as a reminder of her impact, both as an athlete and an advocate.
Tournament director Mark Ein echoed this sentiment: "Having Venus here is incredible for the fans and the sport. She embodies what it means to be a champion, on and off the court."
What’s Next?
While Williams hasn’t confirmed her schedule beyond Washington, speculation is already building about a potential US Open appearance. For now, she’s focused on the present. "I’m taking it one match at a time," she said. "But if I keep having this much fun, who knows?"
One thing is certain: Venus Williams isn’t done yet. And if her hilarious motivation is any indication, she’s enjoying every minute of the journey.