Venus Williams Makes History in Australia But Falls Short in First Round

Venus Williams Sets Age Record at Australian Open But Falls in Three Sets

Venus Williams, aged 45, made history at the 2026 Australian Open by becoming the oldest woman to compete in the singles main draw during the Open Era. Despite a heroic effort and a 4-0 lead in the final set, she narrowly lost in the first round to Olga Danilovic, ranked 69th in the world.

Williams surpassed Kimiko Date’s previous record (44 years, 2005) and entered the tournament via a wildcard, 28 years after her debut at Melbourne Park in 1998.

“It was such a great game and such a great moment,” said Venus after the match. “I’m playing better with each match.”

A Classic Battle With a Heartbreaking Finish

The seven-time Grand Slam singles champion looked poised for a victory when she raced to a 4-0 lead in the deciding set. But Danilovic stormed back, winning six straight games to take the match 6-7 (5), 6-1, 6-4.

“She played a great game, with some luck there as well. But that’s sport,” Williams admitted.

Emotional Farewell and Crowd Respect

The match ended with a standing ovation for Venus from a packed John Cain Arena. Despite the result, it marked her best Grand Slam showing since Wimbledon 2021.

Danilovic honored the occasion:

“Playing against Venus Williams is something I cannot take for granted. It was a pleasure to face a legend.”

Pat Cash: ‘She’s a Superstar, But She Must Prove Herself’

Following the loss, former Wimbledon champion Pat Cash weighed in on Venus’ future in Grand Slam tennis, particularly regarding wildcard entries.

“Venus is a superstar, but she’s got to prove herself,” Cash told BBC Radio 5 Live. “She’s short on match play. Going forward, Wimbledon would be great for her to play again, but not just because she’s Venus Williams.”

Williams has only won three matches in three years at WTA level but has committed to playing more in 2026.

What’s Next? Doubles With Alexandrova

Venus isn’t done yet in Melbourne. She is expected to compete in the women’s doubles with partner Ekaterina Alexandrova, keeping her Grand Slam journey alive in a different bracket.