Venus Williams, aged 45, delivered a stunning performance at the DC Open in Washington, defeating 23-year-old Peyton Stearns in straight sets, 6-3, 6-4. The match marked her first singles win in nearly two years, and her first singles match in 16 months, making her the oldest woman to win a WTA-level match since Martina Navratilova in 2004.
A Historic Comeback
Williams had not played a singles match since March 2024, when she lost in the first round of the Miami Open. Her last singles victory came in August 2023 at the Cincinnati Open. After undergoing surgery and spending over a year away from competition, she returned to the court with renewed energy and precision.
Dominating the Court
Despite the long hiatus, Williams showed no signs of rust. She fired powerful serves exceeding 110 mph and broke Stearns early in the match. Her court coverage and tactical play kept the younger opponent on the defensive. The second set saw Williams rally from a 1-3 deficit to take control, eventually sealing the win with a 112 mph serve.
Crowd Support and Emotional Victory
The Washington crowd responded with roaring support throughout the match. Williams acknowledged their energy, saying, “We were literally living and dying together.” Her fiancé was also present, cheering her on during this emotional return. After the win, she performed her signature twirl and waved to the crowd, visibly moved by the moment.
What’s Next for Venus
Williams is set to face Magdalena Fręch, the No. 5 seed from Poland, in the second round. With momentum and crowd support behind her, the DC Open could become one of her most memorable runs in recent years.