"Why not?" Before returning to the court at 45, Venus Williams reveals her sister Serena's could return to tennis

Venus Williams, 45, will return to the court on Monday, July 21st, in the first round of the Washington Open. The American will face her compatriot, 23-year-old Peyton Stearns, ranked 34th in the WTA.

After a 16-month absence, Venus Williams will return to competitive tennis, having accepted a wild card for the Mubadala Citi DC Open. The seven-time Grand Slam champion's response to why she chose to play again was simple: "Why not?"

The day before her first-round match against Peyton Stearns in the U.S. capital, Williams participated in a press conference. She revealed her love for hard courts, her enduring passion for tennis, and the recent training she's undertaken – all factors contributing to her decision to play professionally at 45.

"When I was younger, I wanted to play, to be a champion. I loved the game so much, I didn't realize it would become so much bigger than me. Seeing all these young women doing positive things with their lives, winning tournaments, inspiring the next generation, it's something I never imagined. It's like the icing on the cake. It's beautiful," Venus stated, as quoted by tennis.com.

During her time away from the court, the former world number one took on various challenges, including working in television. This experience, Williams said, has made her more understanding of journalists, realizing how easy it is to say the wrong thing. "I'm glad I managed to avoid being suspended," she joked.

Her family and friends played a crucial role during both the challenging and the successful times she's experienced.

"You know, I believe in love and in those around me, my family and friends. They keep me going and keep my feet on the ground. These are the people who are there for you when things are at their lowest."

"They're there for you even when things are going really well, because that's tough too, when you're on cloud nine trying to maintain that and manage what's happening. So love is what always keeps you going," Williams explained.

Finally, Venus spoke about her sister, Serena, and admitted she'd love to see her back on the tennis court too.

"She can take six months off and still play incredibly well. You can't teach that kind of talent. She's just that good. I don't know what she'll do. I don't ask those questions. I think we're always training because that's who we are, we're always hitting the ball," Williams said.

"Quite frankly, it's excellent cardio. You get fantastic legs and arms from tennis. So obviously, part of her goal is to stay in shape. I keep telling my team, 'The only thing that would make this [situation] better would be if she were here too.' We've always done everything together, so of course, I miss her. But if she comes back, I'm sure she'll let you know," concluded the four-time Olympic gold medalist.