Venus Williams, 45, Gets Standing Ovations at Australian Open

The crowd at John Cain Arena jumped to their feet before Venus Williams even stepped onto the court, knowing they were about to witness something special.

At 45 years old, Williams returned to the Australian Open for the first time since 2021, becoming the oldest player to ever compete in the tournament. She lost to 24-year-old Serbian player Olga Danilovic in three sets, but the result barely mattered to the fans who came to celebrate her comeback.

Williams received four standing ovations throughout the night: when her name was announced, when she entered the court, after winning the first set in a tiebreak, and again as she left the arena. Less than a year after undergoing surgery for uterine fibroids, she gave fans the thrilling performance they hoped for.

The match itself delivered genuine drama. Williams surged ahead 4-0 in the deciding set, and the arena buzzed with anticipation that she might actually pull off the win. While she eventually ran out of steam, the 45-year-old showed flashes of the brilliance that made her a legend.

Fan Danii Clarkson, who spent the day waiting to see Williams play, called the atmosphere "incredible and, honestly, emotional." Getting to witness Williams back in Melbourne and still in amazing form felt special and lucky, she said.

Some critics questioned whether Williams deserved a wildcard spot over younger players. But watching the packed arena and the electric energy she brought to the tournament, the decision validated itself.

Why This Inspires

Williams debuted at this tournament at 17, when she faced her younger sister Serena in the first of 31 professional meetings. She reached the final twice and created countless memories at Melbourne Park over nearly three decades.

Her return wasn't about proving she could still win Grand Slams. It was about showing up, competing at the highest level, and letting fans celebrate a career that changed tennis forever. At an age when most athletes have long retired, Williams demonstrated that passion and love for the sport don't have expiration dates.

Danilovic earned her victory and likely won new fans with her composed performance against a legend and a hostile crowd. Williams gave everyone exactly what they came for: great tennis, genuine emotion, and a reminder that some comebacks matter simply because they happen.

The standing ovations said it all.