Hobart, 13 January (H.S.): Germany's Tatjana Maria ousted American tennis legend Venus Williams 6-4, 6-3 in the first round of the Hobart International on Tuesday. This marked the first career meeting between the 38-year-old Maria and 45-year-old Williams, creating the highest combined-age matchup in WTA Tour history since its inception in 1973—surpassing previous benchmarks by nearly three years.

Setback for Australian Open Prep

Williams received a wild card for the Australian Open 2026, starting January 18 in Melbourne, where her Hobart participation served as key preparation. This first-round exit marks her second consecutive early tournament departure, following a defeat in last week's Auckland Classic.

Australian Open Return After Five Years

Williams returns to Melbourne Park after five years, poised to become the oldest player ever to compete there, eclipsing Japan's Kimiko Date's 2015 record at age 44.Storied Career Laden with Records

Williams boasts seven Grand Slam singles titles—five Wimbledon and two US Open crowns—and held the world No. 1 ranking for 11 weeks in 2002 as the first African-American woman to achieve this in the Open Era.

In doubles, she partnered with sister Serena to secure 14 Grand Slam titles without a single final loss.Unmatched Olympic Legacy

As tennis's most decorated Olympian, Williams earned four golds and one silver across five Games, including Sydney 2000 singles and doubles triumphs. Despite injury setbacks, her court presence at 45 exemplifies enduring grit and passion for the sport.

---------------

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar