Washington, D.C., July 23, 2025 – Venus Williams, at 45 years old, etched her name in the tennis history books once again, becoming the oldest player to win a WTA singles match since 2004. The seven-time Grand Slam champion showcased her enduring prowess with a commanding 6-3, 6-4 victory over Peyton Stearns at the Washington Open on Tuesday, July 22, 2025.
Williams, a former world No. 1, displayed the relentless drive and skill that have defined her illustrious career. Facing the 23-year-old Stearns, ranked significantly higher, Williams combined powerful groundstrokes with tactical precision to secure the win in straight sets. The match, played under the lights at the William H.G. FitzGerald Tennis Center, captivated fans who witnessed a masterclass from the tennis icon.
“I still have that fire in my belly,” Williams said post-match, her passion undimmed by time. “I love this game, and I’m here to compete and give everything I have.”
Her victory marks a significant milestone, surpassing the previous record for the oldest WTA singles match-winner set by Martina Navratilova in 2004. Williams’ achievement underscores her remarkable longevity in a sport known for its physical demands, further cementing her legacy as one of tennis’ all-time greats.
The Washington Open, a WTA 500 event, has long been a stage for Williams’ brilliance, and her latest triumph adds another chapter to her storied career. As she continues to defy expectations, fans and analysts alike are eager to see how far the veteran can go in the tournament.
Williams is set to face [opponent’s name, if available] in the next round, with the tennis world buzzing about the possibility of more historic moments from the ageless champion.
