Venus Williams Signals Possible 2026 Return After Surgery, WTA Wins

Venus Williams, at age 45, continues to defy expectations by competing at the highest level on the WTA Tour despite serious health challenges, including a surgery to remove uterine fibroids that had severely impacted her career. After a hiatus since March 2024, she made a strong comeback with a wild-card entry at the Citi Open in Washington, D.C., where she defeated the world No. 35 Peyton Stearns, becoming the oldest player to win a WTA Tour singles match since Martina Navratilova in 2004. Williams emphasized that age is just a number and that she is focused on preparing and competing, with plans to participate in the 2025 North American summer hard-court season, including the Cincinnati Open and the U.S. Open mixed doubles event. While uncertain about her long-term future, she stated she should never be ruled out for 2026 and beyond. Williams encourages advocacy for health, sharing her own misdiagnosis and struggles to help other women receive better care sooner. Her commitment to tennis remains strong as she balances recovery with training and competition.