Venus Williams gives honest reaction after taking on Madison Keys at 2025 Charlotte Invitational

Venus Williams and Madison Keys candidly shared their thoughts on playing against each other at this year's Charlotte Invitational shortly after the conclusion of their exhibition encounter. Keys registered a straight-set win over her childhood tennis idol.

In the aftermath of the World No. 7 and reigning Australian Open champion's victory against the former No. 1 and seven-time Major winner, Keys spoke up about how special it was for her to play against the legendary Williams.

"I've always enjoyed playing at places that love tennis and Charlotte is one of those places. I'm so honored to be back and I hope they have me again, but it's such a joy playing here and getting to play Venus is so special," Keys said in her post-match, on-court interview.

Next, the interviewer turned to Venus Williams and asked the 45-year-old WTA veteran what continues to motivate her to keep competing. Here, the 49-time career singles titlist laid bare the love for tennis she still feels, saying:

"I just love the game. I'm having so much fun, hitting the balls with joy, it never gets old. That's the real truth."

Venus Williams confirms Auckland participation, but refuses to divulge details about schedule after WTA 250 event

Venus Williams at the 2025 Charlotte Invitational (Source: Getty)

At a press conference ahead of her Charlotte Invitational encounter against Madison Keys, Venus Williams was questioned regarding her participation at competitive events in the upcoming 2026 tennis season. The 45-year-old confirmed that she will feature at the ASB Classic in Auckland, a combined WTA 250 and ATP 250 tournament in the buildup to the Australian Open.

However, she also expressed uncertainty over her participation beyond Auckland, saying:

"Well, for now, I can only confirm Auckland. We'll see what happens after. And of course tonight."

At the same press conference, Williams was also asked if she can play a part in facilitating the tennis comeback of sister Serena after recent speculation about the 23-time singles Slam champion's return. The 45-year-old, dismissing the idea, said:

"All I know is, I can't get Serena Williams on the court. She doesn't practice. So it seems very unlikely to me."

Venus Williams' most recent competitive tennis outing came at this year's US Open, where she incredibly featured in both singles and doubles action. While her women's singles and mixed doubles campaigns ended in the first round, in women's doubles, she finished as a quarterfinalist alongside Leylah Fernandez from Canada.