Tennis icon Venus Williams is making a triumphant return to competitive play at the DC Open, her first tournament since March 2024, and she’s openly wishing her sister Serena would come out of retirement to join her. “The only thing that would make this better is if she was here,” Venus said with a grin, reflecting on their shared legacy of 37 combined Grand Slam titles.

Venus, 45, who won seven major singles championships, including five at Wimbledon, last played at the 2022 DC Open. Her comeback, announced via a wild-card entry, surprised fans and the tennis world. “I hold my cards tight,” Venus said, thrilled to reconnect with the sport’s adrenaline and challenges. Her team contacted DC Open chairman Mark Ein in April, who eagerly welcomed the chance to spotlight the former World No. 1. “She’s an icon on and off the court,” Ein noted.

While practicing recently, Venus was joined by Serena, 43, who hasn’t competed since the 2022 U.S. Open, where she hinted at “evolving” away from tennis. “She can take six months off and still clocks it clean,” Venus marveled, praising Serena’s unmatched talent. Though Venus remains unsure of Serena’s plans—“I don’t ask those questions”—she’s focused on her own game, confident in her big-hitting style. “I’m still the same player,” she declared.

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As for future tournaments, Venus is keeping plans vague, saying, “I’m just here for now, but who knows?” Her return promises to electrify the DC Open, with fans eager to see if she can reclaim her competitive edge.

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