MELBOURNE, Australia — A New Milestone, But No Win for Venus Williams
After a long 45 years, Venus Williams found herself looking to set a high-profile record at the Australian Open. But on Sunday, just another 14 and a half minutes of serving became a struggle to keep her hopes alive. The seven-time major champion, ranked No. 576 and competing as a wild card, held a promising 4-0 lead in the third set. However, Olga Danilovic surged back with a six-game winning streak, ultimately winning the match 6-7 (5), 6-3, 6-4.
“It was a great journey on the court today,” Williams said, leaving the stadium with a smile and a wave.
Marking a significant achievement, Williams became the oldest woman to participate in the singles main draw of the Australian Open, breaking the previous record held by Japan’s Kimiko Date, who was 44 during her first-round exit in 2015.
“I’m really proud of my effort today because I’m playing better game after game and getting closer to my goals,” she reflected. “Now I need to keep moving forward, keep improving myself, and manage my mistakes better.”
Admitting that there are challenges that come with extended play, she noted, “It’s a little strange, but it’s exciting to perform well and be so close to that next step.”
Since her first appearance in the Australian Open at 17 years old—where she reached the quarter-finals—this marked her 22nd visit to Melbourne Park. Williams, who lost in finals to her younger sister Serena in 2003 and 2017, married Andrea Preti in December and they made the trip to Melbourne together.
Williams aspired to do more than just set an age record; she hoped to achieve a victory that would lead to her next matchup against Coco Gauff.
After trading sets, Williams showcased her skills, conceding only five points in four games before Danilovic, ranked No. 68, found her rhythm and began applying pressure.
“Before the match, I thought about how special this moment was—I couldn’t take it for granted,” Danilovic said. “At 4-0, I decided I would just play my game.”
The final set reached 4-4, where Williams served for a remarkable 14 minutes and 28 seconds, managing to save two break points. Despite her effort, she ultimately fell short.
“It was a remarkable game and a memorable moment. The crowd’s energy really lifted me,” Williams remarked about her lengthy service game. “She played exceptionally well, and sometimes luck plays a role in sports. But it was truly a great moment.”
As Danilovic served out the match, Williams’ forehand caught the net, just missing the line at match point.
Entering the tournament after a five-game losing streak since her last victory in Washington last year, Williams returned to the U.S. Open in August but ended in the first round.
“I felt good at four love; it was my largest lead since coming back,” Williams shared. “In many ways, it’s almost like re-learning how to compete.”
She intends to continue this journey with doubles at Melbourne Park before considering the rest of her 2026 schedule. “Right now, I’m focused on tournaments. Doubles is next for me,” she concluded.
