Venus Williams and Andy Roddick are two of the most revered names of American tennis, especially from the last few decades, and boast a combined Grand Slam count of eight.
Although, that is heavily weighted in favour of the former.
However, despite Andy Roddick having retired in 2012, and Williams having failed to play a professional match on the WTA since March, many might question what this duo could possibly be doing at the upcoming US Open, which starts later this month.
But, a return to tennis is now on the cards for both of them, as they are set to play together against a similarly legendary opposition.
Venus Williams and Andy Roddick to pair up at the US Open
Journalist Ben Rothenberg was the man to deliver a fresh US Open update, however, whilst it revealed two players who would be present at the event, neither were participating in the main draw for the men or the women.
Instead, he details two US tennis superstars returning to New York to participate in an exhibition doubles match, writing on X: ‘Venus Williams, who has not officially retired but has not played any pro match since March, is playing an exhibition mixed doubles match at the #USOpen next week during qualifying.
‘Venus is teaming up with Andy Roddick against Gabriela Sabatini and Juan Martin del Potro.’
A star-studded lineup, it promises to be a bumper event in what is the final Grand Slam of the tennis calendar year.
The US Open has also promised that this will offer the largest purse in tennis history at $75m.
Venus Williams hasn’t retired from professional tennis just yet
Although she might be opting to play an exhibition match ahead of the official draw, it’s worth remembering, as Rothenberg notes, Williams’ remarkable tennis career is still far from finished, even if her last match came at Miami in March.
Due to her steady decline in quality and fitness, many contemporary tennis fans might have missed out on the remarkable tennis player that the 44-year-old was across an illustrious 20 years playing tennis.
With five Wimbledon titles and a further two at this upcoming event, the US Open, she remains one of the most renowned stars of her generation.
In fact, were it not for her legendary sister, she would likely have plenty more titles in her cabinet as well, with Venus Williams ranking highly on a list detailing the top 100 athletes of the 21st century.
Retirement for Venus would be right around the corner, or it could be coming in the next few years. Regardless, fans will always flock to see her on court, whether it be in a proper match or just for show.
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