Venus Williams, at 45 years young, is making a triumphant return to the tennis world. After more than a year away from competition, she’s gearing up to play at the Citi Open in Washington. But while she’s excited to be back, there’s one thing that would make it even better: having her sister Serena by her side.
“I keep telling my team, the only thing that would make this better is if she was here,” Venus shared with a smile. “We always did everything together, so of course I miss her.”
Serena Williams, 43, hasn’t played since the 2022 U.S. Open, where she announced she was “evolving” away from tennis after an illustrious career boasting 23 Grand Slam singles titles. However, a recent video showing Serena hitting a few shots sparked hopes of a possible return.
“She showed up to one of my practices for about 15 to 20 minutes,” Venus recounted. “She can take six months off and still hit it clean. You can’t teach that kind of talent. She’s just so good.”
Venus herself is a seven-time Grand Slam champion, and both sisters have left an indelible mark on the sport. Her last professional match was in March 2024 at the Miami Open. The long break led many to wonder if she was done with tennis, but her wildcard entry into the Citi Open surprised fans and peers alike.
“This is very special for me to come back and play tennis,” Venus said. “I think it’s a surprise for the fans—and a surprise in general, as I hold my cards tight.”
Mark Ein, Chairman of the Citi Open, was thrilled to welcome her back. “She’s such an icon of the sport—both on and off the court,” he said. “Anytime you can have her engaged, and have the spotlight on her and everything she’s done and continues to do, it’s hugely positive.”
As Venus embarks on this new chapter, fans around the world are eager to see the legendary Williams sisters grace the courts together once more. Only time will tell if Serena will heed her sister’s call.
