At 45, Venus Williams sets record at Australian Open but falls in the 1st round

Venus Williams made history on Sunday when she took to the court at the Australian Open, becoming the oldest woman ever to compete in the tournament’s singles main draw. At 45, the seven-time major champion surpassed the previous record held by Japan’s Kimiko Date, who was 44 when she played her final Australian Open in 2015.

Despite the milestone achievement, Williams’ tournament ended with a heart-wrenching 6-7 (5), 6-3, 6-4 first-round defeat to Serbia’s Olga Danilovic. In a match that showcased both Williams’ enduring power and the challenges of her comeback journey, the American veteran built a commanding 4-0 lead in the decisive third set before Danilovic mounted a remarkable comeback, winning six consecutive games to claim victory.

“It was an amazing journey on the court today,” Williams said afterward, maintaining her characteristic grace despite the disappointing result. “I’m really proud of my effort because I’m playing better with each match, getting to the places that I want to get to.”

The pivotal moment came during an epic 14-minute, 28-second game at 4-4 in the final set. Williams fought valiantly, saving multiple break points and creating game point opportunities of her own with powerful winners and clutch aces. Ultimately, Danilovic secured the crucial break before serving out the match in 2 hours and 17 minutes when Williams’ forehand clipped the net and landed just wide.

For Williams, this Australian Open appearance marked her 22nd trip to Melbourne Park, a remarkable journey that began with her tournament debut in 1998 when she reached the quarterfinals as a 17-year-old phenom. Her history with the tournament includes two finals appearances, both losses to her sister Serena, in 2003 and 2017.

Currently ranked No. 576 in the world and playing on a wild-card entry, Williams has been frank about the challenges of returning to top-level competition. Her first-round exit extends a difficult stretch that has seen her win just one match since beginning her comeback to the tour last year.

“At 4-love I felt good. Also, it’s the biggest lead I’ve had since I’ve been back,” Williams reflected. “In a lot of ways I’m having to relearn how to do things again, if that makes any sense.”

The match represented more than just another tournament appearance for Williams. Recently married to Andrea Preti in December, she arrived in Melbourne with renewed purpose, hoping not only to break Date’s age record but to advance in the draw and potentially set up a marquee matchup against American tennis sensation Coco Gauff.

For her part, 22-year-old Danilovic recognized the significance of the occasion. “I told myself before the match I really want to take this moment — playing against Venus Williams is something I can’t take for granted,” the world No. 68 said. “At 4-0, I said ‘just play.'”

The Serbian left-hander found her rhythm midway through the final set, using her powerful forehand returns to neutralize Williams’ serve and gradually turn the tide of the match. “It was such a great game, such a great moment. The energy from the crowd was amazing,” Danilovic added after securing her victory.

Despite the defeat, Williams departed Rod Laver Arena with a smile and a wave to the appreciative crowd. Her journey in Melbourne will continue in the doubles competition, after which she’ll evaluate her schedule for the remainder of 2024.

Williams’ Australian Open appearance comes after a first-round exit at last year’s U.S. Open, highlighting the steep challenges facing the veteran as she continues her comeback in a sport increasingly dominated by younger players. Yet her willingness to compete at the highest level well into her fifth decade stands as a testament to her extraordinary passion for tennis and competitive spirit.