Auckland Loss Won’t Deter Venus Williams’ Age-Defying Aussie Open Comeback

Venus Williams may have bowed out in three sets against Magda Linette at the Auckland Classic on Tuesday, but the 45-year-old tennis legend is far from finished. The American star, a seven-time Grand Slam singles champion, showcased glimpses of her signature power and grace before Linette, ranked 52nd in the world, clinched a 6-4, 4-6, 6-2 victory.

Despite the loss, Williams received a warm ovation from fans, a testament to her enduring impact on the sport. She will now head to Hobart for another warm-up tournament, keeping her sights firmly on the Australian Open, where she is set to become the oldest woman ever to compete after receiving a wildcard.

This match marked Williams’ first competitive singles appearance since the US Open in August, reflecting her sporadic schedule in recent years. Alongside her singles play, she also competed in doubles in Auckland with Ukraine’s Elina Svitolina.

The contest against Linette was a rollercoaster. Williams’ four aces in the second set pushed the match to a decisive third, but the former world number one, now ranked 582, couldn’t maintain the momentum. Linette broke serve twice in the final set to advance to the second round.

Linette, who had lost her previous encounters with Williams, praised her opponent’s skill and movement. “She was really moving well, hitting well, especially when running to the open space. I had to stay calm, be more solid, not make too many mistakes on my side,” she said.

For Williams, the loss is just a stepping stone in her remarkable journey. Her determination to compete at the highest level at 45 reminds fans around the world that passion and resilience can defy age.