WASHINGTON — When Venus Williams’ bid for her first winning streak since 2019 ended with one last forehand that landed long, the spectators at the D.C. Open’s main stadium gave her a standing ovation. She responded with a smile and the sort of pirouette and wave she usually reserves for celebrating wins.

Venus Williams is celebrating two major milestones — her first singles win in two years and her engagement to partner Andrea Preti.

Her first match back on the WTA Tour, after a 16-month hiatus, was something between a sporting event and a tent revival.

Venus Williams' inspiring run at the 2025 Citi DC Open ended Thursday. The legendary tennis player lost to No. 5 seed Magdalena Frech in straight sets, 6-2, 6-2, in the round of 16. Frech will face No. 3 seed Elena Rybakina after defeating Williams in their first career head-to-head matchup.

Williams could not overcome 27-year-old Magdalena Frech, 6-2, 6-2, in the second round of the tournament on Thursday, July 24. Williams has not won back-to-back matches since 2019. Venus Williams and Hailey Baptiste won their first-round match in doubles play on Monday, but the duo fell short of reaching the third round.

Venus Williams’ winning return to the professional tennis tour also came with a surprise announcement: She is engaged.

WASHINGTON — Venus Williams took the Mubadala Citi DC Open by storm.

All paths lead to Italy for Venus Williams, who is gearing up to marry her fiancée Andrea Preti this fall in Italy.