Indian Wells, CA, USA : Seven-time Grand Slam champion Venus Williams said it remains a special feeling to compete in front of fans at the Indian Wells Open despite suffering a first-round defeat on Thursday. 🎾
The 45-year-old American, playing with a wildcard, lost 6-3, 6-7(4), 6-1 to French qualifier Diane Parry in Indian Wells, California. Williams thrilled the home crowd by battling back to win the second-set tiebreak but struggled in the windy conditions during the deciding set.
Williams said the support from fans still motivates her after decades on tour. She described it as “very thrilling” to perform in front of supporters who continue to believe in her, even though the match proved challenging due to difficult conditions.
A Southern California native, Williams first played the tournament in 1996. She and her sister Serena Williams famously boycotted the event for nearly 15 years after facing racial taunts during the 2001 edition before returning in 2016.
While her singles campaign has ended, Williams remains in the doubles draw. Meanwhile, speculation continues about whether 23-time Grand Slam champion Serena could return to professional tennis this year, though Venus declined to comment on the possibility.
