At a Glance
- Venus Williams, 45, became the oldest woman ever to play in the Australian Open main draw
- She lost in the first round to Olga Danilovic after leading 4-0
- The match marked her first Australian Open appearance in five years
- Why it matters: Her historic appearance shows longevity in professional tennis at the highest level
Venus Williams made tennis history on January 18 when she stepped onto Melbourne Park as the oldest woman ever to compete in the Australian Open main draw, ending her five-year absence from the tournament.
The 45-year-old tennis legend received a wildcard entry for the tournament, setting the age record on her return to the Grand Slam stage. Williams first played the Australian Open in 1998 at age 17, launching a career that would include seven Grand Slam titles.
Historic First-Round Battle
Williams faced 24-year-old Olga Danilovic in the opening round, creating a striking 21-year age gap between competitors. The match began promisingly for the veteran, who jumped to a 4-0 lead in the first set.
The momentum shifted dramatically as Danilovic won six consecutive games, claiming the set and ultimately the match. The loss ended Williams’ Australian Open campaign in the first round, but the crowd’s reception told a different story.
“It was such a great game, such a great moment. The energy from the crowd was amazing. That lifted me up so much,” Williams said after the match.
Learning to Compete Again
Williams openly discussed the challenges of returning to elite competition after her extended absence from the tournament. Her early lead against Danilovic represented progress in her comeback journey.
“It felt good,” Williams said of her 4-0 advantage. “That’s the biggest lead I’ve had since I’ve been back.”
The tennis legend acknowledged the difficulty of regaining her former level of play, describing her current process as fundamentally rebuilding her game.
“In a lot of ways I’m having to relearn how to do things again, if that makes any sense,” Williams explained. “I’m really proud of my effort today because I’m playing better with each match, getting to the places that I want to get to.”
Respect Across Generations
Danilovic approached the match with deep respect for her legendary opponent, recognizing the unique opportunity to face Williams on a Grand Slam stage.
“I told myself before the match I really want to take this moment,” Danilovic said. “These things don’t happen every day and playing against Venus Williams is something I cannot take for granted.”
The Serbian player expressed her appreciation after the match, calling it “such a pleasure playing against such a legend.”
Personal Support System
Following her post-match media obligations, Williams left the venue hand-in-hand with her husband, Andrea Preti, according to the AP. The couple’s relationship has been in the spotlight following their dual wedding celebrations last year.
Their first ceremony took place on September 18 in Ischia, Italy, though paperwork complications led to a second celebration. Williams explained the challenges of marrying in Italy as a foreigner, noting the process can take approximately eight months.
The couple opted for a second wedding in Palm Beach, Florida, featuring week-long festivities culminating in a courthouse ceremony on December 19.
Williams first confirmed her engagement to the 37-year-old actor-producer during a post-match interview in July, months after engagement speculation began in February.
Looking Forward
Despite the first-round loss, Williams expressed optimism about her progress and performance level. Her ability to compete against a top-100 player 21 years her junior demonstrated her continued capability at the sport’s highest level.
“It’s kind of weird, but it’s super exciting to have played that well and to get myself in that position and come very close,” Williams reflected on her performance.
The record-setting appearance at Melbourne Park adds another milestone to Williams’ storied career, which spans more than two decades of professional tennis. Her presence in the tournament draw, regardless of result, continues to inspire both fans and fellow players.
Key Takeaways
- Venus Williams set the Australian Open age record at 45 years old
- Her first-round match against Olga Danilovic showcased intergenerational competition
- The tennis legend continues competing at Grand Slam level after five years away
- Williams’ comeback demonstrates the evolving nature of longevity in professional tennis
