Venus Williams Loses in 3 Sets at US Open in Her 1st Grand Slam Match in 2 Years

Venus Williams, of the United States, reacts against Karolina Muchova, of the Czech Republic, during the first round of the U.S. Open tennis championships in New York City on Aug. 25, 2025. Adam Hunger/AP Photo

NEW YORK—Even at age 45, even after two years away from Grand Slam tennis, Venus Williams displayed some big serves and powerful groundstrokes at the U.S. Open on Monday night in front of a supportive crowd at Arthur Ashe Stadium, before losing 6-3, 2-6, 6-1 to Karolina Muchova.

Williams was the oldest singles player at the hard-court tournament since Renee Richards was 47 in 1981.