Venus Williams and Stan Wawrinka break historic record with wins at 40+

In a remarkable week for global tennis, Venus Williams, aged 45, and Stan Wawrinka, aged 40, achieved a historic feat by winning matches in the WTA and ATP circuits, respectively, something not seen since 1979. The American returned to the courts after a 16-month absence and triumphed at the WTA 500 in Washington, while the Swiss advanced at the ATP 250 in Umag, Croatia. The victories, secured on July 22, 2025, highlight the longevity and resilience of these two sports icons, challenging the new generation of tennis players. The achievement echoes the victories of Ken Rosewall and Renee Richards, who, 46 years ago, were the last to record wins by players over 40 in the same week.

Venus Williams’ return was marked by a convincing win over compatriot Peyton Stearns, ranked world number 35, by 6/3, 6/4 in 1 hour and 37 minutes. Meanwhile, Wawrinka defeated Ecuadorian Alvaro Guillen Meza 6/4, 6/1 in Umag. Both athletes, with illustrious careers, showed that experience can still outshine youth in the sport.

• Historic milestone: For the first time in 46 years, players over 40 win in the same week at ATP and WTA tournaments.
• Longevity in sport: Venus, with 49 titles, and Wawrinka, with 16, remain competitive at the highest level.
• Triumphant return: After injuries and surgeries, both athletes overcame physical challenges to win again.

Venus Williams hits an UNREAL lob against Peyton Stearns in Washington.

45 years old & hasn’t played a tour level singles match in more than a year.

Simply unbelievable… but that’s what legends do. 👑

pic.twitter.com/kCYJ4PrUpH

— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) July 23, 2025

Venus Williams’ inspiring comeback

Venus Williams, a seven-time Grand Slam champion, had not competed in singles since the WTA 1000 in Miami in March 2024. Her victory in Washington was more than a mere return; it was a testament to determination. Facing health challenges, including surgery to remove uterine fibroids, she spoke about the difficulty of returning to top-level play after such a long hiatus. The American, once world number 1, became the second-oldest woman to win a WTA match since Martina Navratilova, who, at 47, won at Wimbledon in 2004.

Her match against 23-year-old Peyton Stearns showcased Venus’ ability to blend power and strategy. Despite a 22-year age gap, the veteran dominated key points, closing the game with authority. The packed crowd at the Citi Open cheered her performance, and Venus celebrated with her signature twirl, a gesture reflecting her passion for the sport.

Wawrinka and the special meaning of Umag

For Stan Wawrinka, the ATP 250 in Umag holds deep significance. It was there, in 2006, that he claimed his first professional title, defeating Novak Djokovic in the final. At 40, Wawrinka returned to Umag’s clay courts with a solid victory over qualifier Alvaro Guillen Meza. The 6/4, 6/1 scoreline reflects the consistency of the former world number 3, who, despite being ranked 156th, continues to challenge younger opponents.

The Swiss, owner of three Grand Slam titles, emphasized the emotional importance of playing in Umag. The win marked his second ATP victory in 2025, following another in Bucharest in March. Known for his powerful one-handed backhand, Wawrinka showed that his technique and mindset still make him a formidable competitor.

A milestone after 46 years

The achievements of Venus Williams and Stan Wawrinka resonated in the tennis world due to their rarity. Since October 1979, when Ken Rosewall in Brisbane and Renee Richards in Phoenix won ATP and WTA matches in the same week, no pair of players over 40 had replicated the feat. At the time, Rosewall was 44, and Richards, like Venus in 2025, was 45. This historical coincidence underscores the significance of their recent victories, placing the two veterans alongside tennis legends.

• Ken Rosewall: Won in Brisbane in 1979 at 44, showcasing longevity in a less physically demanding era.
• Renee Richards: Triumphed in Phoenix at 45, a pioneer as a transgender woman in sports.
• Venus Williams: At 45, defeated Stearns in Washington in 2025.
• Stan Wawrinka: At 40, won in Umag, the site of his first title.

Overcoming physical challenges

The journeys of Venus and Wawrinka are defined by resilience. Venus has battled Sjögren’s syndrome, diagnosed in 2011, an autoimmune condition causing fatigue and joint pain. Despite this, she reached the Australian Open final in 2017. Her recent fibroid surgery was another hurdle cleared, enabling her 2025 return.

Wawrinka underwent two left foot surgeries in 2021, sidelining him for a year. His return required patience and dedication, especially in a sport dominated by younger players. The Swiss, once a top-3 player, now fights to stay competitive despite a lower ATP ranking.

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The value of experience in the circuit

In a sport where youth often prevails, Venus and Wawrinka’s victories highlight the power of experience. Venus, with 49 singles and 22 doubles titles, uses tactical intelligence to offset physical limitations. Her Washington win was complemented by a strong doubles performance alongside Hailey Baptiste, defeating Eugenie Bouchard and Clervie Ngounoue 6/3, 6/1.

Wawrinka, with 16 singles titles, including three Grand Slams, relies on consistency and mental strength. His Umag victory reminded fans that refined technique and resilience can outmatch younger players’ raw power. Both demonstrate that dedication and love for the game can extend elite careers.

Upcoming challenges on court

Following their wins, Venus and Wawrinka face new tests. In Washington’s WTA 500, Venus takes on Poland’s Magdalena Frech, the fifth seed, in the second round. The American aims to advance in the tournament, a stepping stone for the US Open, where she may receive a wildcard.

Wawrinka faces Bosnia’s Damir Dzumhur in Umag’s second round. The Swiss, a 2023 finalist, seeks to progress and repeat his 2006 success. Both matches, scheduled for July 23, 2025, promise more excitement for tennis fans.

The passion driving the veterans

Venus and Wawrinka’s longevity transcends technique and physical preparation. For Venus, support from friends, family, and fans is crucial. She emphasized her love for tennis as a driving force, evident in the warm reception from Washington’s packed crowd.

Wawrinka highlighted his passion for the sport as his reason to keep playing. In interviews, he has described tennis as more than a profession—a source of joy and fulfillment. This mindset explains why both continue to defy expectations in such a demanding sport.

A legacy of inspiration

Venus Williams and Stan Wawrinka’s 2025 victories are not just personal triumphs but milestones inspiring other athletes. Venus, the first Black woman to reach world number 1 in the Open Era, paved the way for players like Coco Gauff. Her fight against racism and for gender equality in sports makes her an iconic figure.

Wawrinka, with his aggressive style and resilient mindset, exemplifies perseverance. His journey, from a Swiss farm to three Grand Slam titles, shows how dedication can shape careers. Together, they prove that age is just a number in tennis.