This was not a one-stop hello-and-farewell appearance for the 45-year-old Venus Williams, who had been away from the tour for 16 months before showing up in Washington and winning once each in singles and doubles.

WASHINGTON — Venus Williams took the Mubadala Citi DC Open by storm.

The seven-time Grand Slam singles champion had not played a WTA Tour match since March of 2024 and had not won one since 2023.

On July 22, following her first singles match in more than a year, Williams revealed that she is engaged to actor and former model Andre Preti. While speaking to WTA following her DC Open singles match, the tennis star, who sported a diamond ring on her left finger, called Preti her fiancé.

All paths lead to Italy for Venus Williams, who is gearing up to marry her fiancée Andrea Preti this fall in Italy.

Venus Williams' comeback tournament at the Citi Open came to an end on Thursday, as she was beaten in the second round by Magdalena Frech.

The 45-year-old, who lost in the second round Thursday at the DC Open in her return to tennis, has never looked happier after a loss.

Coco Gauff Has One Word for Venus Williams After Historic Accomplishment at DC Open originally appeared on Athlon Sports. Venus Williams, aged 45, stunned tennis fans on Tuesday at the Mubadala Citi DC Open in Washington by defeating 23‑year‑old Peyton Stearns 6‑3, 6‑4 in the opening round.