Looking back and embracing the incredible journey! Tennis star, Venus Williams turned professional on October 31, 1994, at the age of just 14. On Thursday, Williams shared a few pictures from her incredible journey on her social media accounts to celebrate the 30th anniversary of her professional tennis debut. Several fans and familiar faces across the tennis world congratulated her on her remarkable journey, but the comment that stole the limelight was from an actor-producer! Who was it? Venus Williams’ rumored boyfriend, Andrea Preti.
Venus Williams started her professional tennis career at the Silicon Valley Classic in Oakland, She defeated former NCAA singles champion Shaun Stafford by two sets in the first round. Her recent pictures on social media gave us a glimpse of that iconic moment. She was seen signing autographs after the match in that picture. Starting from the alleys of Compton, then moving to West Palm Beach, Florida before landing herself on the summit of the tennis world on February 25, 2002. What a journey this has been for Venus Williams! Recalling those fond memories in a single glance, she captioned her IG post saying, “30 years ago today, I stepped on the court for my pro debut! .” Andrea Preti was among the first to share a heartfelt reaction to this post.
He wrote, “Hunny Bonny ️” in the comment section, and then Williams thanked him in the Italian language, “@andreapreti88 grazie! .” After that, Preti came back with a reply in the same thread writing, “@venuswilliams prego,” which means “you’re welcome!” For those who have been following these two closely, there have been several such moments in the last few months where we’ve seen them engaging in some heartwarming scenes.
In July this year, Venus Williams and Andrea Preti were spotted vacationing together in Nerano, Italy, along the stunning Amalfi Coast. This has led to speculation about their relationship status. Williams previously mentioned, “I’ve had a single life for a long time, and it’s really easy to get stuck in that routine, which can be hard to break out of.” However, during their time in Italy, she seemed to enjoy Preti’s company, often smiling brightly. While neither of them has confirmed their relationship, the chemistry between them was evident throughout their trip. At one point, Preti was seen wrapping his arm around Venus and even giving her a shoulder massage.
A week later, the pair was again seen together, this time walking hand in hand through the streets of New York City. Preti, dressed in a black T-shirt and gray sweatpants, was alongside Williams, who wore a white tank top and green shorts, carrying a matching jacket. Fans have started to express their excitement over the duo’s outings!
In addition, Venus Williams shared some photos on her Instagram stories. In one, she wrote, “When you come to play, come to change the game.” In another, she reflected on her journey, stating, “This day 30 years ago, I brought braids and beads, marking the beginning of a game never before seen in tennis. I was just 14, unaware of how it would transform my life and many others. I’m so proud of those who followed. Always be unapologetically and authentically you, and take pride in your origins. You never know—you might just change the game.”
American tennis player and close friend of Williams, Reilly Opelka, commented “greatness” on her recent post. Although Venus has repeatedly denied dating rumors involving Opelka, their social media interactions keep fans engaged. During the 2024 Met Gala, Opelka was left speechless by Venus’s stunning appearance in a dazzling outfit. They have consistently supported each other, both in person and online. In 2021, Williams was seen attending several of Opelka’s matches.
Prominent tennis coaches Rick Macci and Rennae Stubbs also showed their support on Venus’s recent post celebrating her achievements. Macci commented, “On fire!! ️,” having played a crucial role in developing the careers of the Williams sisters. After witnessing Venus’s talent for the first time, he told her father Richard she would become the Michael Jordan of tennis. Now, she stands as a true legend of the sport. Rennae Stubbs, who has closely watched the sisters, chimed in with, “Omg, and I was there!” What are your thoughts on Venus Williams’s remarkable journey?
