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Venus Williams is making a return to competitive tennis and says the only thing that could make it more special is if her sister, Serena Williams, returned too.
"We always did everything together, so of course I miss her," Venus, 45, said during a press event ahead of the DC Open. "But if she comes back, I'm sure she'll let y'all know."
Venus, who hasn't competed since March 2024 at the Miami Open, received a wild card entry for the DC Open. Until recently, she was listed as "inactive" on the WTA Tour website.
"I'm just here for now, and who knows?" Venus said. "Maybe there's more to come, but right now I'm focused on this moment. I haven't played in a year. I know I can play tennis, but getting match-ready takes time. Still, I believe I'll play well. I'm the same player I've always been. I hit big. That's my style."
Venus and Serena made history together, including winning the gold medal in doubles at the 2000 Olympics. Their powerful partnership has long been a defining force in the sport.
Serena, now 43, last played at the 2022 US Open. At the time, she shared that she was "evolving away" from tennis to pursue business ventures. Since then, she has welcomed her second daughter in August 2023 and has embraced new personal and professional interests.
When asked about Serena's potential return, Venus responded, "I don't know what she's going to do. I don't ask those questions. We've always played, we've always hit the ball. That's just who we are."
Recently, Serena joined Venus during practice sessions. According to Venus, her sister's talent remains as sharp as ever.
"She can take six months off and still hit the ball perfectly," Venus said. "You can't teach that kind of skill. She's just naturally good."
Although Serena's return remains uncertain, Venus's excitement for her own comeback is clear, and her admiration for her sister's lasting brilliance is unmistakable.