‘I was so mad’ – Venus Williams still has fire as she begins 30th year on WTA Tour with win in Auckland

Venus Williams overcame the frustration of a rain-enforced stoppage to begin her 30th season on the WTA Tour with victory over Katie Volynets at the ASB Classic in Auckland.

Williams won 7-6(4) 6-2 against her fellow American and will now prepare for a last 16 clash against China’s Lin Zhu on Tuesday.

The 42-year-old did not have things her own way in New Zealand, as the wet weather stopped play in the first-set tie-break, with Volynets leading at the time.

It was relatively plain-sailing from that point onwards though, as Williams comfortably won the second set to win the match in one hour and 47 minutes.

“It’s hard when you’re all fired up and just suddenly you have to stop,” said Williams following the victory.

“I was so mad on the rain break. My coach could barely talk to me so I’m going to try to improve my attitude.”

Williams, who made her debut on the WTA Tour back in October 1994, is now preparing for the Australian Open after being given a wild card entry to the tournament.

Despite winning seven singles Grand Slam titles in her illustrious career, none of those have come in Melbourne.

She lost to her younger sister Serena in the 2003 and 2017 finals, with the 23-time Grand Slam winner retiring in September.

It is a different story in the doubles though, after winning five titles – four in the women’s doubles with Serena and a mixed doubles crown in 1998 with Justin Gimelstob.

After being handed a wild card to compete at the tournament, she said: “I am very excited to be returning to Melbourne to compete at the Australian Open in January.

“I’ve been competing in the country for over 20 years now and the Australian community has always supported me wholeheartedly.

“It will be an honour to play for the fans again and I’m looking forward to making more memories at the tournament this year.”

Australian Open tournament director Craig Tiley added: “Venus is not just an incredible player and fan favourite, she’s a great role model and leader in our sport in so many ways.

“We are delighted to welcome her back to the AO in January.”

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