WASHINGTON — After Venus Williams' four-matches-in-four-days return to professional tennis was over, after she was loudly feted by appreciative fans even after a loss in singles, the D.C. Open stadium announcer offered a thought: “We’re never going to say goodbye to Venus Williams, are we?” he said.

Venus Williams' comeback tournament at the Citi Open came to an end on Thursday, as she was beaten in the second round by Magdalena Frech.

Venus Williams has been given a wildcard for the Cincinnati Open, which kicks off on August 7. The 45-year-old returned to tour at the Washington Open winning her first match in sixteen months before her loss in the second round.

Venus Williams’ recent singles win at the D.C. Open showcased her longevity and brought attention to health coverage for aging athletes following a joking comment she made in an on-court interview.

Her first match back on the WTA Tour, after a 16-month hiatus, was something between a sporting event and a tent revival.

Venus Williams won her first singles match in more than a year at age 45 and highlighted the phenomenon of older athletes playing at an elite level.

Venus Williams’ winning return to the professional tennis tour also came with a surprise announcement: She is engaged. After becoming the second-oldest woman to w

The 45-year-old, who lost in the second round Thursday at the DC Open in her return to tennis, has never looked happier after a loss.