Venus Williams Auckland Classic 2026 Run Cut Short as Legend Prepares for History

The legend is back on the court, and age is just a number. Venus Williams, now 45, faced a tough battle in her return to competitive singles, showing that she's still got the drive to compete at the highest level.

Venus Williams Auckland Classic 2026 Opening Match Details

On Tuesday, Poland's Magda Linette defeated the seven-time major champion in a three-set thriller at the Auckland Classic. The score ended 6-4, 4-6, 6-2 in favor of the world-ranked 52nd Linette. Despite the loss, Williams received a standing ovation from the crowd who witnessed her first competitive outing since the US Open last August.

Williams, currently ranked 582, flashed her signature power in the second set, firing 4 aces to force a decider. However, she eventually faded in the third set as Linette broke her serve twice. Linette later admitted she had to stay calm against the former world number one, praising Williams for hitting and moving exceptionally well.

Eyes on a Historic Australian Open Campaign

Auckland was just the beginning of a historic month. Williams is set to head to Hobart next before traveling to Melbourne for the year's first Grand Slam. Having been granted a wildcard, she'll become the oldest woman ever to compete in the main draw of the Australian Open. This marks her first appearance at the tournament in 5 years, a testament to her unprecedented longevity in the sport.