Venus Williams tearfully reflects on comeback journey, before US Open press conference comes to abrupt end

Fox News Flash top sports headlines are here. Check out what's clicking on Foxnews.com.

Venus Williams became visibly emotional during her post-match media session at the U.S. Open on Monday. 

Williams fielded questions from reporters after she was eliminated from this year’s final Grand Slam in the first round by 11th-seeded Karolina Muchova of the Czech Republic. Williams is a two-time U.S. Open singles champion, but has not competed in a Grand Slam in the past two years as she worked through a series of health setbacks.

Williams, 45, appeared to fight back tears when she began reflecting on the challenges she faced during her road back to the tennis court.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM

Venus Williams after losing to Karolina Muchova during the U.S. Open at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in New York City. (Robert Deutsch/Imagn Images)

"Oh, what did I prove to myself? I think, for me, getting back on the court was about giving myself a chance to play more healthy," Williams responded after being asked if she proved anything to herself by making it back to the U.S. Open.

"When you play unhealthy, it’s in your mind, it’s not just how you feel — you get stuck in your mind, too."

AMERICAN MADISON KEYS UPSET BY UNRANKED RENATA ZARAZÚA IN US OPEN FIRST ROUND

"So, um, it was nice to be freer," she added.

Williams' voice quivered during her answer as her demeanor became increasingly emotional.

Venus Williams reacts during the women's singles match against Karolina Muchova at the U.S. Open on Aug. 25, 2025, in New York City. (Clive Brunskill/Getty Images)

"The lights are very bright out there," Williams said. "I don’t think I’ve ever had a crowd that much on my side. When I lost those