After a seven-and-a-half year drought, Venus Williams will feature in the final of a grand slam following her latest triumph at the Australian Open.
The 36-year-old once again proved that age is just a number with a three-set win over Coco Vandeweghe, a player who is 11 years younger than her, during their semifinal match in Melbourne. Williams’ win isn’t just a milestone for her, it is also a milestone in tennis history as she becomes the oldest player to reach a major final since Martina Navratilova in 1994.
“It was a heartfelt match.” Williams said. “She played so well. There was never a moment where she wasn’t just hitting the ball amazing and striking the ball with just such precision.”
“It’s always very satisfying to be able to get through in such a big match against an opponent who was just on fire.”
Entering this year’s Australian Open, few expected the former world No.1 to progress to the later stages following her start to the season. At the ASB Classic, Williams was forced to withdraw from the tournament due to issues with her elbow. Then, during her first week at the Australian Open the American confirmed that she was still ‘managing’ the injury.
“I mean, honestly, all the signs didn’t look that way in Auckland. Of course, I dreamed of it because I definitely worked hard in the off-season. It was not a great start, I’ll just say that.” She said about her journey to the final.
Williams’ resilience against the odds is a feature that has been prominent throughout her life. Throughout the later stages of her career Williams has been coping with the effects of Sjögren’s syndrome, a chronic disorder of the immune system. At her low point, she dropped outside the top 100 in 2012. Despite those setbacks, it was the strong mindset of Williams that enabled her to return back to the top of the women’s game in her mid-thirties.
“Clearly these matches are challenging, physically, mentally, all of that. It’s a challenge. But I’m up for the challenge.” Williams said after her semifinal win.
“Also, if I’m here, that’s why I’m here. I’m not just here to hang out halfway around the world.”
Awaiting her in the final will be one of Williams’ biggest supporters – her sister Serena. In what has become one of the most famous sibling rivalries in the history of sport, Williams trails the head-to-head 11-16 to Serena. It will be the first time that both have played each other in the Australian Open final since 2003.
“It was like a battle royale. It was so intense. I just couldn’t climb on top her that day. She was so good. It was wonderful.” The 36-year-old recounted about their 2003 clash.
Similar to the majority of her career, the odds will be stacked against Williams. Facing world No.2 Serena, the 36-year-old believes her consistency will be key in her bid to win the trophy.
“I probably just need to continue playing like I’m playing. I haven’t played badly.” Williams said about what she needs to do in the final.
The Australian Open women’s final will take place on Saturday night at Melbourne Park. Williams will be bidding to win her first major title since 2008.
