Venus Williams Returns to US Open at 45, Driven by Her Love for Tennis

Venus Williams insists her enduring passion for the game is the reason she continues to compete, as the two-time US Open champion prepares to return to Flushing Meadows at the age of 45, Sport360NG reports.

Many expected the American great to announce her retirement at the start of the year, but instead she is about to make history with a record 25th appearance at her home Grand Slam. She begins her campaign on Monday against Czech 11th seed Karolina Muchova.

“It’s super thrilling to be back. It never gets old, it just gets more exciting,” said Williams, a seven-time major winner.

Earlier this season, the former world No.1 had been listed as an inactive player after going 12 months without competing. But she surprised fans in July when she made her comeback at the Washington Open, marking her first tournament in 16 months.

Williams defeated fellow American Peyton Stearns in the opening round, becoming the oldest player to win a WTA singles match in over two decades, before exiting in the second round.

When asked what continues to motivate her, she was clear: “I love my job. That’s where the joy comes from.”

Now ranked 580th in the world, Williams has been handed a wildcard entry into the US Open, making her the oldest singles player to compete at the tournament in 44 years. It will also be her first major appearance since last year’s event, when she lost in the opening round.

While some critics argue her inclusion takes away an opportunity from emerging players, others believe legends of her stature should always be welcomed back. With her sister Serena having retired in New York two years ago, speculation is growing that this could be Venus’ last bow at the event where she has long been cherished by the crowd.

Typically, Williams kept her future plans under wraps when speaking to reporters. “I think I’ll always play tennis. It’s in my DNA,” she said. “Whether it’s now or 30 years from now, tennis will always be one of the most important parts of my life.”