Venus Williams US Open 2026: Loses to Sofia Kenin in First Round

Venus Williams exited the 2026 US Open in the first round after suffering a straight-set defeat to compatriot Sofia Kenin in a dramatic late-night contest in New York.

The 46-year-old American received a wild card to compete in the singles draw, nearly three decades after reaching the US Open final as a teenager in 1997. Despite losing 6-2, 7-6 (8/6), Williams produced a determined fightback in the second set before Kenin held her nerve in the deciding tie-break.

Venus Williams Pushes Sofia Kenin in Second Set

Kenin looked in control from the beginning and quickly established a lead in the opening set. The 27-year-old American took the first set 6-2 after putting Williams under sustained pressure.

The second set initially followed a similar pattern. Kenin moved into a 4-2 lead and had a break point that would have given her an even bigger advantage.

Williams, however, responded strongly and produced one of the most impressive stretches of the match. The veteran raised her level, fought back from the difficult position and eventually forced the set into a tie-break.

Kenin Survives Williams’ Late Fightback

Williams appeared close to forcing a deciding set when she opened up a 6-2 advantage in the tie-break. With four set points available, the veteran had a major opportunity to extend the match.

Kenin refused to give up. She regained her composure and won six consecutive points to complete the comeback and seal a 6-2, 7-6 (8/6) victory.

The contest ended shortly after 2am local time, with Williams receiving a strong ovation from the Arthur Ashe Stadium crowd as she left the court.

Williams’ Long US Open History Continues

Williams’ appearance in New York carried significant historical importance. She first reached the US Open final in 1997 as a teenager, establishing herself as one of the most prominent figures in women’s Tennis.

Almost 29 years later, she returned to the singles draw with a wild card at the age of 46. Although her campaign ended immediately, her performance against Kenin showed her ability to compete in a demanding Grand Slam environment.

Williams has not indicated when she intends to end her singles career. Her last Grand Slam singles victory came at Wimbledon in 2021, when she reached the second round.

Since that tournament, Williams has made six Grand Slam singles appearances and has been eliminated in the opening round on each occasion.

Venus Williams to Continue at US Open in Doubles

Although Williams’ singles campaign is over, her participation at the US Open is not finished. She is scheduled to compete in the women’s doubles alongside her sister Serena Williams later in the tournament.

The sisters’ appearance will give fans another opportunity to watch one of the most recognizable partnerships in tennis history compete together on the Grand Slam stage.

What Comes Next for Venus Williams?

The defeat against Kenin leaves questions about Williams’ future in singles tennis. At 46, every Grand Slam appearance carries additional significance, particularly given her remarkable longevity in the sport.

For now, Williams has another chance to compete in New York through the women’s doubles draw. Her first-round singles defeat may have ended one chapter of her 2026 US Open campaign, but her tournament is not yet over.

Williams’ ability to fight back from 4-2 down in the second set and reach a 6-2 lead in the tie-break also ensured that her latest US Open appearance ended with a competitive performance rather than a routine defeat.