Venus Williams, 45, Returns from 16-Month Layoff at Washington Open

 Tennis legend Venus Williams is set to end a 16-month hiatus from competitive play at the Washington Open, scheduled for July 27–August 3, 2025, with organizers confirming her wildcard entry.

At 45, the seven-time Grand Slam champion, who last competed at the 2024 Miami Open, aims to defy age and injury setbacks, including a knee issue that sidelined her since April 2024. The event marks her return to the WTA Tour, where she holds a career record of 815-265, and offers a platform to mentor younger players.

Williams, with 49 career titles, will face a field including top-20 players like Coco Gauff, though her ranking has slipped to 1,234 due to inactivity. Her comeback follows a rigorous training regimen at her Florida base, with coach David Witt noting improved mobility. 

Fans and analysts are divided, some see it as a nostalgic bid, given her 0-4 record in 2024, while others anticipate a competitive edge from her experience. The Washington Open, a WTA 500 event, expects a 10% attendance boost, reflecting her enduring appeal, though her first-round draw remains a critical hurdle.