Venus Williams’ wait for a victory continues after the American lost 6-2, 6-2 to 18-year-old Austrian Lilli Tagger at the Guangzhou Open on Tuesday.
The 46-year-old has now lost 16 consecutive matches and remains without a singles win in 2026. Her last victory came in July 2025, with the former world number one currently ranked 599th.
Tagger, ranked 53rd in the world, controlled the match with an impressive serving performance, dropping just seven points on serve and denying Williams any break-point opportunity. The teenager broke twice in each set to secure a comfortable straight-sets victory.
The match also marked a remarkable generational gap, with 28 years separating the two players. Tagger was born in February 2008, by which time Williams had already won six of her seven Grand Slam singles titles.
Despite the result, the American received warm support from spectators in Guangzhou, who applauded her as she left the court.
Tagger admitted she was excited but nervous about facing one of tennis’ biggest names.
“When I saw the draw I was super excited and a bit nervous – I respect her a lot,” she said.
The Austrian also spoke about Williams’ connection to her coach, Francesca Schiavone, the former French Open champion who is the same age as Williams and lost all eight of her career meetings with the American.
“It is funny she used to play with my coach. I would love to play at this age – I want to congratulate her,” Tagger added.
Williams fought to stay competitive, saving 12 of the 16 break points she faced, but struggled to put pressure on Tagger’s serve.
Her latest loss is likely to renew discussion about the wildcard invitations that have allowed her to continue competing on the WTA Tour. While critics argue that such places could benefit younger players, organisers also recognise the attention a seven-time Grand Slam champion attracts.
