“This sport never stops teaching you,” Venus Williams on playing professionally at 45-years-old and the ATX OPEN 2026

Image by Tiffani Arnold

The world-renowned tennis star, Venus Williams, is making her comeback rounds this early 2026, after being out on injury for over a year. With a decades-long career behind her, Williams continues to move markers and set precedents, but this time, the stakes aren’t as high. In the 2025 U.S. Williams was the oldest competitor since 1981, when Renee Richards competed at 47-years-old.

While she vied for the top spot in the ATX Open, I spoke with Venus about career but also what the vantage point looks like at 45 years old. The 2026 ATX Open marked her first appearance in Texas and the fans supported. 

“Everyone is rooting for me, so that’s nice,” said Williams. “Everyone has been so supportive of me being on the court, me putting the effort to be here.” 

Fans greeted Williams outside her ATX Open practice sessions.  “So, it’s nice to take that out on the court with me.”

Post-surgery, Williams has to acclimate to the court and her rhythm. Williams told reporters “old situations” can feel new and that she pinpoints those areas to improve. 

At this point in her career, Williams is playing tennis with a different lens. She doesn’t seem to be too retrospective and welcomes lessons learned at her current stature.
“This sport never stops teaching you.”

“Definitely a lot of things that I guess I never thought I’d be going through but it’s very cool too,” said Williams. “At the same time, I’m learning so much. This sport never stops teaching you.”

Between competitions, Williams plans on seeing what Austin has to offer. Two of which are, trying out high-profile barbecue spots around Austin and the other teaming up with Peyton Stearns in doubles against Taylor Townsend and Storm Hunter.