Venus Williams and Jamie Murray secured a memorable victory on Court 1 on Friday at Wimbledon. Their triumph was even more remarkable since Venus did not plan to play at the event.
The 42-year-old had not played a professional tournament since the Chicago Women's Open last August. Due to her age and long absence, many did not expect Venus to return to the WTA Tour.
That is why many fans were overjoyed to see her in the draw for the mixed doubles alongside Jamie Murray, who has won the mixed doubles title on two occasions. On paper, they looked like a formidable team.
The pair proved they were also a good combination in practice in their opening-round match against Alicja Rosolska and Michael Venus. After a high-quality three-set encounter, they prevailed 6-3, 6-7, 6-3.
Interestingly, Venus said she was not going to play at SW19 until she was inspired by her sister Serena, who also made her comeback after a long time on the sidelines. However, Harmony Tan defeated her in the opening round.
It was definitely super last minute. I was just inspired by Serena. I had no plan to play,” the seven-time Grand Slam winner admits. “I saw the grass and I got excited. I was at the French (Open), it’s a beautiful event, but my heart didn’t beat the same way.
The win in the mixed doubles match with Murray meant a lot to Williams. She sat down after the match to soak in all the atmosphere and emotions. The American admitted Wimbledon is special to her. Exactly five years ago, she made her debut in 1997.
It was like, ‘Oh, my God, wow.’ I not only played a match but won a match. I’m never like that kind of player. I always expect to win. But when I sat there it was real. I felt something in my heart.
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