Venus Williams, 45, Makes History as Oldest WTA Singles Winner in Over Two Decades

Venus Williams, 45, made a triumphant return to the winner’s circle Tuesday, becoming the first player over 40 to win a WTA singles match in more than 20 years with a 6-3, 6-4 victory over Peyton Stearns at the DC Open.

The seven-time Grand Slam champion advanced to the round of 16 in her first singles win since August 2023, when she defeated Veronika Kudermetova at the Cincinnati Open. Her latest triumph marks the oldest WTA singles match win since Martina Navratilova, then 47, claimed a victory at Wimbledon in 2004 – placing Williams as the second-oldest player in history to achieve the feat.

Williams, who last competed in a singles match during a first-round loss at the 2023 Miami Open, has remained active in doubles, teaming with Hailey Baptiste for a win earlier this week.

“This just shows there are no limits for excellence,” Williams said after the match. “It’s about what’s in your mind and how much you’re willing to invest – mentally, physically, and emotionally. When you commit fully, results follow.”

Her journey continues this week with a doubles match scheduled for July 23 alongside Baptiste against Taylor Townsend and Zhang Shuai. In singles, Williams faces No. 24 seed Magdalena Fręch on July 24, as she looks to extend one of the most enduring and inspirational careers in tennis history.

A trailblazer for generations, Williams continues to defy expectations, proving that passion and perseverance transcend age.