Venus Williams made a winning return to tennis after a 16-month hiatus as she won her first round in the women’s doubles at the Citi Open. Williams, the seven-time Grand Slam champion, accepted a wildcard for the event in Washington, DC and had not played since the Miami Open in March last year.

(Reuters) -Venus Williams enjoyed a winning return to tennis after more than a year away from the game as the 45-year-old American teamed up with compatriot Hailey Baptiste to win their round of 16 women's doubles tie at the Washington Open on Monday.