Venus Williams's quest for an elusive Australian Open title came to an abrupt end in the first round, as she succumbed to a 6-7 (5-7), 6-3, 6-4 defeat against Serbia's Olga Danilovic. The 45-year-old Williams, making history as the oldest player to compete in the Australian Open singles draw, saw her lead evaporate in a dramatic final set on Sunday night at John Cain Arena.

The seven-time Grand Slam champion, granted a wildcard entry into the tournament, started strong, breaking Danilovic's serve in the opening game. Williams showcased flashes of her vintage form, delivering powerful serves and moving fluidly across the court. Despite dropping the first two points in the tiebreak, she rallied to seize the first set with a well-executed forehand winner.

Danilovic, ranked 69th in the world, responded in the second set, securing an early break and maintaining her advantage to force a deciding set. Williams appeared to regain control, surging to a 4-0 lead in the third. However, the momentum shifted dramatically as Danilovic mounted a stunning comeback, winning six consecutive games to clinch the match.

A pivotal moment arrived in the penultimate game, a grueling affair lasting nearly 15 minutes, featuring eight deuces, before Danilovic finally converted on a third break point. Williams fought tenaciously, but Danilovic's resilience ultimately proved decisive.

Williams served impressively throughout the match, racking up nine aces. However, she also struggled with double faults, committing five times as many as her opponent.

"Move your legs, move your hands -- that was the only thing I was saying to myself... I kept myself calm, and it worked," Danilovic said after her victory. She acknowledged the significance of the moment, stating, "Playing against Venus Williams is something that I cannot take for granted... There was a lot of nerves. I just said to myself, 'Okay, just play, just take everything out and just play point by point'. I'm very happy I managed to get this one, but it was such a pleasure playing such a legend".

Williams had previously reached the Australian Open final twice, in 2003 and 2017, losing both times to her sister, Serena. Her last Grand Slam win was in 2021, when she reached the second round at both the Australian Open and Wimbledon. This year, before the Australian Open, Williams also lost in the first round at the Hobart International against Tatjana Maria.

Danilovic will advance to the second round, where she is scheduled to face the winner of the match between Coco Gauff and Kamilla Rakhimova.