Rakhimova exacerbates the crisis of Venus Williams

Kamilla Rakhimova has overwhelmed Venus Williams in the first round of the WTA Toronto 2026 with a score of 6-4 6-1 in 1 hour and 27 minutes of play, worsening the crisis of the American legend to 13 consecutive losses and confirming that her end is closer than ever at 46 years of age.

The match was very even throughout the first set, and even Venus had two break points to go up 5-3 and serve. However, Rakhimova held on, saved the situation, and managed to break Williams' serve immediately after to take the first set. From that moment on, the American player fell apart and could barely win a game in the second set, leaving her winless in singles in 2026.

Venus Williams has 1 victory in the last 3 years

Venus Williams' last victory dates back to last year's WTA Washington, and her penultimate victory was on August 14, 2023. It is true that there have been pauses, but this is also a clear sign that her level is far from the best players on the tour. In fact, she currently ranks 664th in the WTA ranking, and if she continues to play the most prestigious tournaments on the circuit, it is due to the wildcards she receives.

Although her attitude is an example both on and off the court, it hurts to see one of the greatest legends of women's tennis in this situation, as she is not ending her career in the best possible way. On one hand, it is an inspiration for many players on the tour to see Venus on the court at her age, but on the other hand, what has been witnessed these last months does not do justice to the legacy that the American has left for more than two decades.

This is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Rakhimova agrava la crisis de Venus Williams