Venus Williams carved her name into the history books at the Australian Open on Sunday, becoming the oldest singles player ever to compete in the tournament's main draw. However, the 45-year-old American's remarkable milestone was tinged with disappointment as she let a commanding lead slip away in a dramatic first-round defeat to Serbia's Olga Danilovic.
A Record-Breaking Appearance Ends in Agony
Ranked world No. 576 and playing on a wildcard, Williams received a standing ovation from the Melbourne crowd as she entered John Cain Arena. The moment was a testament to her legendary endurance, coming 28 years after her Australian Open debut in 1998 – before her opponent was even born. Williams, who has never won the singles title in Melbourne but was a finalist in 2003 and 2017, seemed poised for a triumphant return when she seized control of the deciding set.
After splitting the first two sets, losing the second 6-3 after taking a tight opener 7-6, Williams stormed to a 4-0 lead in the third. She was just two games from a memorable victory. Yet, the match took a stunning turn. Danilovic, digging deep, reeled off six consecutive games to snatch an improbable 6-7, 6-3, 6-4 victory, ending Williams's campaign after two hours and 40 minutes of gripping tennis.
Williams Reflects on a Painful Learning Curve
In a poignant post-match reflection, Williams was philosophical about the collapse. "At 4-0 I felt good. It’s the biggest lead I’ve had since I’ve been back," she stated, referencing her recent return to the tour. "In a lot of ways I’m having to relearn how to do things again... I’m really proud of my effort today because I’m playing better with each match."
She pinpointed the need for more competitive matches to sharpen her instincts. "Those are things that come with playing extra matches, like getting your feet in the right position, choosing the right shots," Williams explained. "It’s weird but it’s super exciting to have played that well and to get myself in that position and come very close." Her fight was epitomised in a marathon 15-minute service game at 4-5 in the final set, where she saved multiple match points before finally succumbing.
Danilovic's Dream Win Over a Legend
For the victorious Danilovic, the occasion was laden with nerves and significance. "These things don’t happen every day and playing against Venus Williams is something that I cannot take for granted," the 22-year-old said. "At 0-4, I said to myself, ‘Just play, just take everything out and play point by point’. I’m happy I managed to get this one but it was such a pleasure playing against a legend."
The defeat extends Williams's recent difficult run; she entered the tournament on a five-match losing streak, with her sole win in her comeback coming at Washington last year. However, her historic appearance in Melbourne – where she has also won five women's doubles titles, four with sister Serena – underscores an unparalleled career of longevity. Williams will now shift her focus to the doubles competition, continuing her Australian Open journey.
