Frances Tiafoe is into the second round of this year’s Australian Open, but there was no such luck for Venus Williams.
Tiafoe beat Jason Kubler 7-6(7-4), 6-3, 6-2 in his opening match in Melbourne, and now meets Francisco Comesana in round two.
His fellow American Williams played her first match of the Australian Open shortly after, but she fell 7-6(7-5), 3-6, 4-6 to Olga Danilovic.
Williams, who is a seven-time Grand Slam champion, received a wildcard for the hard-court tournament at the age of 45.
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Frances Tiafoe calls Venus Williams ‘one of the best athletes in the world’
Tiafoe was tasked with discussing her return to the event following his win, saying on court: “45 years young, 45 years young.
“I’m happy she gets to come out here, pack it out. She deserves all the flowers. She’s one of the best athletes in the world.
“Not just women athletes, one of the best athletes of all time. So enjoy the show and enjoy Venus Williams. Peace.”
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Venus Williams has another chance at further Grand Slam glory
It was certainly a fair assessment from Tiafoe, with Williams still producing a superb level of tennis despite her age.
The WTA legend can leave the Grand Slam with her head held high, with many fans having loved seeing her in Melbourne once again.
She has never secured the Australian Open singles title, losing two finals, but Williams has claimed four doubles and one mixed doubles title in Melbourne.
The American icon does indeed have another chance at success in that regard, having committed to playing doubles once again.
Williams will play alongside Ekaterina Alexandrova, with the duo able to fully focus on the event after the latter also lost her singles opener.
Meanwhile, Tiafoe has a very tricky route to Australian Open singles success should he get past Comesana.
He could meet the likes of Alex de Minaur in round three, Carlos Alcaraz in the quarterfinals and Jannik Sinner in the semifinals.
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