Venus Williams continues to prove that age is no barrier to greatness. At 45, the former world number one extended her time at the 2025 U.S. Open not with a singles run, but by stepping onto the doubles court with rising star Leylah Fernandez. Together they stunned the sixth-seeded team of Lyudmyla Kichenok and Ellen Perez, claiming victory 7–6 (4), 6–3 in a match that reminded fans of everything that makes tennis magical.
For Venus, the win was more than just another result. She admitted that recent tournaments had been difficult, especially when competing while unwell, but in New York she felt fit and energized again. Playing alongside Fernandez brought her joy, and she even called the young Canadian the best partner she has ever had apart from her sister Serena.
Fernandez, just 22 years old, returned the admiration with equal passion. She described teaming up with Venus as a dream come true, saying she felt like a kid on Christmas morning when she got the call. In post-match interviews, she called Venus her inspiration, someone who has shown resilience through both triumphs and challenges, and someone she looks up to not only as a player but as a person.
Their unexpected partnership has captivated the crowd, not only because of their victory but because of the spirit and unity they displayed on court. Venus twirled and waved to the fans with her trademark grace, while Fernandez’s youthful energy balanced the veteran’s calm. It was a reminder that tennis is as much about connection and legacy as it is about rankings and trophies.
This U.S. Open doubles run may or may not end in a title, but for fans the memory of Venus Williams and Leylah Fernandez joining forces will last long after the final ball is struck. It is a story of experience meeting ambition, of mentorship blending with youthful spark, and of tennis once again delivering a moment that goes beyond the game.
