Age-defying Venus Williams makes Australian Open history but bows out in round one
At 45, Venus Williams became the oldest woman to compete in the Australian Open singles main draw, entering on a wildcard. She led 4-0 in the deciding set before Olga Danilovic rallied to win 6-7(5), 6-3, 6-4 in Melbourne. Williams delivered big serves and winners and even saved two break points in a marathon 14-minute service game, but could not close it out. The seven-time major winner is coming off a five-match skid and will shift focus to doubles at the tournament as she maps her 2026 schedule.
