Venus Williams, 45, exited in the first round of her second consecutive warm-up tournament for the Australian Open. The American veteran, however, battled for 87 minutes against Tatjana Maria, ranked 42nd globally, saving 6 of 9 break points before ultimately losing 4-6, 3-6.

Venus (left) and Maria shake hands after their match at the Domain Tennis Centre, Hobart, Australia on 13/1. Photo: Reuters

This first-ever encounter between Williams and Maria set a record for the highest combined age in a match since the WTA Tour was founded in 1973. Maria shared that her two daughters, one 12 years old and one 4 years old, both cheered for Williams instead of their mother.

"Both of them love Venus. Even I am a fan of hers," the German player stated after the match on 13/1. "My children are Venus fans, so this match was really difficult for me. My older child especially admires Venus and was very happy to witness the match in person."

Born in 1987, Maria remains in the world's top 50. Last year, she became the oldest WTA Tour champion since Serena Williams in 2020 after winning the Queen’s Club Championship in London.

Despite consecutive tournament losses, Venus is set to compete in the Australian Open for the first time in 5 years, having received a wildcard entry. She will be the oldest player to participate in a Grand Slam in Melbourne.

Venus, currently ranked 582nd globally, expressed comfort and confidence regarding her physical condition. "I still train regularly, move well, and hit my desired shots. I love competition, so I want to keep playing. My goal is to fight in every match."

Beyond singles, Venus also entered the doubles competition, a format often considered more suitable for her age. However, Venus and Elina Svitolina were also eliminated in the opening round of the women's doubles, losing to the pair Iva Jovic and Alexandra Eala 6-7, 1-6.

Vy Anh