Tennis legend Venus Williams staged a remarkable comeback to the court last month at the DC Open following a terrifying health battle where doctors warned she could “bleed to death.”

The 45-year-old fought against uterine fibroids and underwent a myomectomy in July of the previous year. Following a year-long absence from tennis, Williams returned with vigour at the DC Open, progressing to the round of 16 in singles whilst reaching the quarter-finals in doubles.

She’s now setting her sights on the forthcoming US Open in New York with steely resolve. Williams has obtained a wild-card place to compete in mixed doubles alongside Reilly Opelka and is awaiting confirmation by August 11 regarding whether she’ll compete for the singles title – a crown she’s captured twice previously.

Ahead of her Grand Slam return, Williams revealed her frightening health battle from last year that almost claimed her life.

“What a difference a year makes! I played my first tournament in over 16 months (thank you @markdein1 @mubadalacitidcopen!) and I am now preparing to play the @usopen.

“This post is in celebration of the last day of fibroid awareness month. There can be happy endings!”.

“I was told I was inoperable. I was told I could bleed to death on the table. I was told to get a surrogate and forget the hope to carry my own children. I was misdiagnosed. I went untreated for years and years and years. It’s so important to advocate for your health!

“I suffered from severe anaemia, debilitating pain, excessive bleeding and abnormally frequent menstrual cycles for many years. It affected my tennis and the trajectory of my career.

“I told my story so other women don’t have to go through this and so they can get better sooner. Thank you @drshirazian (my hero!) and @nyulangone for spearheading my pathway to health, getting me back to the sport I love and for helping to build awareness for this very curable issue.

“I play tennis now because I can play healthier than ever, it is a dream come true! Thanks @laralucaslulu @ladyisha01 @andreapreti88 @isabelbrigido_ and Li Fang the dream team that took care of me and my little puppy Harold when I couldn’t!”.

Williams’ frank disclosure about her daunting health ordeal also coincides with her recent engagement to her beau Andrea Preti.

The Italian actor and producer was present in the US Capital for his future wife’s triumphant return to tennis.