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 become one of the most successful siblings in the sporting world.

Over her career spanning over 25 years, Venus has won 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 won 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 defeated 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.”

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. Because of 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.