Venus Williams, one of tennis’s most iconic figures, continues to captivate the sport well into her 40s. At 45 years old, Venus recently stunned fans and analysts alike by clinching a hard-fought victory at the US Open, reigniting conversations about her potential to return to prominence on one of tennis’s biggest stages.

Venus’s connection with the US Open runs deep. Over her extraordinary career, she has participated in the tournament an astonishing 24 times—more than any other player in history. These appearances have yielded a remarkable record of 79 wins to just 21 losses, reflecting an impressive winning percentage of nearly 79%. Such sustained success is rare in tennis, where the physical and mental demands are relentless.

Her peak at the US Open came in 2000 and 2001, when she secured back-to-back singles titles. These victories were part of her rise as a formidable force in women’s tennis, challenging the sport’s top players and cementing her legacy alongside her younger sister, Serena Williams. The Williams sisters revolutionized tennis with their powerful style and athleticism, inspiring countless fans and reshaping the sport’s cultural landscape.

Beyond these triumphs, Venus’s career is dotted with numerous highlights. She has reached the US Open finals five times in total and has amassed seven Grand Slam singles titles. Her game has always been defined by a potent combination of precise shot-making, power, and strategic intelligence on the court. Even as the sport has evolved and younger players have emerged, Venus has consistently demonstrated resilience and adaptability.

The recent victory at the US Open was particularly noteworthy because it came against Peyton Stearns, a promising young talent. Many observers were skeptical, including tennis player Sam Querrey, who admitted he had not expected Venus to win the match. Such doubts only underscore the reality that Venus is defying expectations and demonstrating that age is not a barrier in professional tennis — especially when paired with skill and dedication.

Looking ahead, Venus faces challenges if she hopes to continue competing at the highest levels. Securing a wildcard entry into the US Open may depend on her performance in upcoming tournaments, such as the Cincinnati Open. Wildcards are granted at the discretion of tournament organizers and serve to admit players who might not meet direct qualification criteria but are deemed valuable additions to the draw. For a veteran like Venus, strong performances in these lead-up events are crucial to stay in contention for a slot.

In addition to her singles pursuits, Venus has been active in doubles play. She recently teamed up with Hailey Baptiste to win a doubles match against opponents including Eugenie Bouchard. These matches are more than just practice; they help her maintain competitive sharpness and match fitness, which are vital as she seeks consistency.

Venus Williams’s longevity in tennis is a testament to her work ethic and passion for the game. She has navigated injuries, including a diagnosis of Sjögren’s syndrome in 2011—a chronic autoimmune disease that causes fatigue and joint pain. Despite this, she adapted her training and playing style to continue competing at a high level, an inspiring example of determination.

Her impact extends off the court as well. Venus is a trailblazer for diversity in tennis and an advocate for equal prize money. In 2007, after years of campaigning, the US Open became the last of the Grand Slams to award equal prize money to men and women, a milestone to which Venus’s voice was instrumental. Beyond tennis, she has ventured into entrepreneurship and philanthropy, including her own interior design firm and initiatives aimed at empowering young women.

So, can Venus make another deep run at the US Open? While the competition in women’s tennis is fierce, and the emergence of younger athletes continues to raise the bar, Venus’s experience, resilience, and skill set her apart. The phrase “it’s not over until the fat lady sings” rings especially true for her story. She is a living legend, still writing new chapters in a career that has already inspired generations.

What lies ahead for Venus Williams remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: her presence on the court continues to electrify fans around the world. No matter the outcome, she exemplifies the spirit of perseverance and passion that defines the greatest athletes. As fans, we can look forward to witnessing whatever she achieves next with eager anticipation and unwavering support.