Venus Williams believes that returning to the US Open isn’t about age; it’s simply thrilling. She expressed her excitement, saying, “It’s very thrilling to be back. It’s not old. It’s going to be even more exciting.” This will mark her record 25th appearance, facing Carolina McNair at Arthur Ashe Stadium on Monday night.
At 45, Williams has been competing in singles at the US Open since Rene Richards set a record in 1981 at the age of 47. “I love my job,” she mentioned, adding, “And then there’s a joy right away.”
Williams is celebrated as one of the greatest players in tennis history, having secured seven Grand Slam singles titles, including victories in 2000 and 2001. This comeback, however, is a bit unexpected for fans. She received a wildcard entry after finding herself ranked 610th in the world.
This participation follows a lengthy 16-month hiatus from tennis, which included surgery for uterine fibroids. She only made her return last month at the Washington Open.
“I want to be my best. That’s what I expect from myself,” she said. “I’m not playing as much as the other players, so when I’m dealing with it, it’s a different challenge. I’m just having fun, relaxing, trying to be my personal best.”
Monday’s match will take place 28 years after her debut at the US Open in 1997, and she shows no intention of stepping away from the game anytime soon. “I think I’ll always play tennis. It’s in my DNA, so it doesn’t matter if it’s 30 years from now,” she remarked. “I’m here, happy. Tennis has always been one of the most important parts of my life.”
In other news, Taylor Fritz won against Emilio Nava with a score of 7-5, 6-2, 6-3, having achieved 22 wins in his last 27 matches since the end of the French Open. He will rest for two days before facing either Sebastian Baez or Lloyd Harris.
Meanwhile, No. 6 Ben Shelton defeated Ignacio in a match that ended 6-3, 6-2, 6-4, and will take on either Pablo Carle No Basta or Pablo La Mas Lewis next.
Shelton, a rising star in tennis, made headlines recently, especially concerning comments about the sport’s traditions following some debates in the athletic world. “Yeah, I understand that I respect your enemies and tennis traditions,” he noted. “But having a young crowd in tennis is really important in attracting future fans of our sport. Kids love talent, excitement, and competition.” He acknowledged how engaging stories in sports, such as the upcoming World Championships, keep people interested.
