Venus Williams, 45, Set for Record 25th US Open Appearance

Venus Williams, 45, Set for Record 25th US Open Appearance

Venus Williams says her passion for tennis remains as strong as ever as she prepares to play in her 25th US Open at the age of 45.

The seven-time Grand Slam champion has been given a wildcard entry to Flushing Meadows and will face Czech 11th seed Karolina Muchova in the opening round on Monday.

“I Love My Job” – Williams on Her Return

After a year away from the sport, Williams stunned the tennis world by returning this summer at the Washington Open, where she became the oldest player to win a WTA singles match in more than two decades.

Asked about her motivation, she replied simply:

“I love my job. So there’s the joy right there.”

Williams, currently ranked 580th, will also become the oldest singles player at the US Open in 44 years.

A Career of Defiance and Legacy

Born in California, Williams first won the US Open in 2000 and repeated the feat in 2001. While her younger sister Serena Williams bowed out of professional tennis at the 2022 US Open, Venus has continued to compete sporadically, often battling injury setbacks.

Critics argue that awarding wildcards to veterans risks blocking younger players, while others believe legends of the sport deserve recognition and opportunities to play on the biggest stages.

Future Still Unclear

The American gave little away about retirement speculation, instead stressing her lifelong connection to the game:

“I think I’ll always play tennis. It’s in my DNA. So it doesn’t matter if it’s now or 30 years from now.”

Whether or not this US Open proves to be her farewell, Williams’ enduring presence remains a source of inspiration to fans in New York and beyond.