When Did Venus Williams Turn Pro?

Venus Williams has had a successful tennis career filled with many glories. She dominated the women’s circuit from a very young age. It was her father, Richard Williams, who introduced her to the sport. Further, he used to train her during her junior days in tennis. Subsequently, Venus, along with her younger sister Serena Williams, has gone on to become one of the most successful siblings in the sporting world.

Over her career spanning more than 25 years, Venus has gone on to win an incredible seven Grand Slam titles. This includes five titles at Wimbledon and a couple of major titles at the US Open. Additionally, apart from her success in singles, she has dominated in the women’s doubles too with Serena. The two sisters have gone on to win 14 Grand Slam doubles titles.

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Venus Williams turned pro at the age of just 14!

The elder Williams sister made her professional debut on October 31, 1994, when she was just 14-years-old. Venus received a wildcard entry into her first professional tournament, the Oakland Bank of the West Classic. In the opening round, Venus was up against the former NCAA singles champion, Shaun Stafford. Venus went on to defeat her compatriot in straight sets 6-3, 6-4, marking her first victory on the pro tour. Recalling this moment, the elder Williams sister mentioned, “I had zero strategy. I had zero idea of how to win a match.”

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA – FEBRUARY 08: Venus Williams of The United States of America celebrates after winning match point in her Women’s Singles first round match against Kirsten Flipkens of Belgium during day one of the 2021 Australian Open at Melbourne Park on February 08, 2021 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Mark Metcalfe/Getty Images)

Further, in the second round, she was up against Arantxa Sánchez Vicario from Spain. Venus went down fighting against her higher-ranked opponent 3-6, 6-3, 6-0. Despite the loss, it marked the beginning of the era of Venus’ entry on the women’s tour.

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At 41, Venus is at the fag end of her career. Due to a leg injury, she hasn’t played in a tournament since August, last year. Despite age not being on her side, the former World Number 1 is hoping to make a comeback later this season.

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