Venus Williams to Co-Chair 2026 Met Gala, Reflects on Tennis Legacy and Life at 45

Venus Williams, now 45, is set to co-chair the 2026 Met Gala alongside Beyoncé and Nicole Kidman for an exhibit called "Costume Art." Known for her impressive career, she remains the oldest player in women's tennis and has yet to retire despite expectations. In December 2024, she married model and restaurateur Andrea Preti in a lavish celebration in Jupiter, Florida, after a private wedding in Ischia, Italy. Despite battling health issues like adenomyosis and Sjögren's syndrome, Venus trains for three hours each day. She made history as the first unseeded woman to reach a US Open final at 17 and was the first African American woman to hold the world No. 1 ranking. Along with Serena, she has 14 Grand Slam doubles titles and three Olympic golds. Recently, she teamed up with Leylah Fernandez at the US Open, making it to the quarterfinals. Venus loves escape rooms with Preti and has been spotted at various tournaments, including the Australian Open. A fashion lover, she has worn outfits from Khaite and Luar, donating much of her wardrobe to combat past shopping habits. She fondly remembers her mother making her first tennis skirt as a pivotal moment in her journey.