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US Open 2023: Venus Williams blown out in 1st round by qualifier Greet Minnen

Venus Williams bowed out in the first round of her 24th appearance at the US Open on Tuesday, furthering speculation about whether it's time for one of the greatest tennis players ever to retire.

The seven-time Grand Slam singles champion lost 6-1, 6-1 to German qualifier Greet Minnen in front of a supportive crowd at New York City's Arthur Ashe Stadium. Cheers erupted every time Williams grabbed a point, but that didn't negate the fact that the fans were watching a 43-year-old face a 26-year-old.

Minnen, in fact, was born three years after Williams turned pro in 1994 and the year Williams reached her first Grand Slam final, a loss to Martina Hingis at the same Arthur Ashe Stadium.