Seven-time major champion Venus Williams made her return to competitive singles play at the Libema Open grass-court tournament after recovering from a hamstring injury. However, her comeback was met with a formidable challenge from 17-year-old rising star Celine Naef of Switzerland, resulting in Williams’ defeat in a thrilling match, 3-6 7-6(3) 6-2.
Despite displaying her resilience and receiving support from her sister Serena in the stands, Venus couldn’t overcome the teenager making her WTA debut. After winning the first set, Williams lost a second-set tiebreaker and struggled in the deciding set.