US EditionVenus Williams loses in Auckland but shows she’s still competitive at 45
- On Tuesday, Jan. 6, 2026, Venus Williams lost her first singles match of 2026 to Magda Linette at the Auckland Classic, 6-4, 4-6, 6-2.
- With a sparse 2025 schedule, Venus Williams received wild-card entries into Auckland, Hobart from Jan. 12, and at Melbourne Park, playing her first singles since last August.
- Serving aggressively, Williams served seven aces, attacked the net, and fought back from 5-2, while Linette said, `She was really moving well, hitting well, especially when running to the open space.'
- The crowd gave Williams a generous ovation as she left the court and she will head to Hobart International for another warm-up before the Australian Open.
- Tuesday's match was Williams's 1,101st singles match on the WTA Tour; she played only three tournaments in 2025, while Linette was just two when Williams began her pro career.
43 Articles
43 Articles
The world's historic number one was eliminated by Magda Linette, in a defeat that marks her return to the circuit at age 45
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Venus Williams has played only sporadically in recent seasons. After a first-round exit at the Citi Open, she appeared in Cincinnati and the US Open, losing early in both events. Now, returning to the tournament in Auckland, where she captured the 46th of her 49 career titles, hope followed her again. Yet, this time, the magic faded quickly, as the 45-year-old fell in the opening round. Venus Williams has lost her first singles match of the 202…
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Venus Williams Shines at 45: A Gritty Comeback in Auckland | Sports-Games
Venus Williams, 45, showcased a commendable performance against Magda Linette in Auckland, hinting at her enduring prowess. Despite her loss, the match reaffirmed her competitiveness on the WTA Tour as she gears up for the Hobart International and Australian Open. Williams remains an inspirational figure in tennis.
Venus Williams ousted in first round of Auckland Classic
Venus Williams was beaten in three sets by Magda Linette on Tuesday at the Auckland Classic as the American great gears up to make history at the Australian Open aged 45. Williams showed glimpses of the talent that has brought her seven major singles titles before running out of steam…
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