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via Imago

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via Imago

Venus Williams, the seven time grand slam champion, just made her return to the US Open on a wildcard entry at the age of 45! This is undoubtedly an incredible feat, considering the last time the US Open had a player of that age or older in the singles tournament was 40 years ago, when Renee Richards played at 47! However, as many already know, things didn’t work in Williams’ favour, or… well, that depends on how you look at it.

Though Venus Williams lost in her first-round match to the No. 11 seed Karolina Muchova 3-6, 6-2, 1-6, the 7 time Grand Slam winner put up a fight, and even stole a set from Muchova. This was not something that the crowd took lightly, this and Williams’ extraordinary career.

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As Williams walked off the court, waving to the cheering crowd with her signature red Wilson bag, not a single person could be seen sitting down in the Arthur Ashe stadium. “I didn’t think she was going to play this year, so what do I know?” The commentator said, adding, “We know nothing except that these fans are very appreciative.” Williams waved goodbye to the 2025 US Open, 24 years after she won it, to a full on standing ovation!

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This is a developing story…

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For minute by minute updates from Flushing Meadows, head to our EssentiallySports Live Blog.

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Is Venus Williams' standing ovation a testament to her legacy or the crowd's nostalgia?

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