When two tennis legends unite for a special tournament, their friendship becomes as compelling as their on-court partnership. Reilly Opelka opened up about his bond with Venus Williams ahead of their upcoming mixed doubles collaboration at the 2025 US Open, revealing how the seven-time Grand Slam champion became one of his closest allies during the darkest period of his career.
What Did Reilly Opelka Say About Venus Williams Ahead of Their 2025 US Open Mixed Doubles Partnership?
Both players have received a wild card entry into the mixed doubles competition at the New York Major. The 2025 US Open mixed doubles will feature a new format, scheduled to take place on Aug. 19 and 20, during Fan Week at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center.
During a recent press conference, Opelka spoke about his friendship with Williams and the numerous interests they share. The bond between them extends far beyond tennis, encompassing their mutual love for art and food, which has strengthened their connection over time.
“We both have a lot in common. We both love tennis. We both love art. We both live in South Florida. We practice together in West Palm Beach a few times, and then we’re traveling and playing a lot of the same tournaments, and going to a lot of museums and art galleries, and we’re foodies. So, it’s a great friendship. I’ve been so lucky,” Opelka said.
However, their friendship runs much deeper than shared hobbies and practice sessions. The former World No. 17 described Williams as an “amazing friend,” and revealed how she became his anchor during one of the most challenging periods of his career. When injuries forced Opelka away from the ATP Tour, leaving him questioning his future in tennis, Williams stood by him with unwavering support.
“When I was injured and not in a great spot, just a spot of doubt or not sure what I would do with myself, she was one of the few people who was always there, always in my corner, and just an amazing friend to have. There’s a reason why she has won so many Slams, won Wimbledon a million times, and played in the hardest era, too,” he continued.
Opelka expressed his admiration for Williams’ remarkable “longevity” in tennis and her ability to avoid “burnout” after years of competition. Beyond her legendary achievements on court, he praised her work ethic and ability to maintain a healthy work-life balance throughout her career.
“I’ve learned a lot from her in that regard. And also, just the tennis life balance, she seems to have it figured out pretty well. When you have as much longevity as her, she’s never burnt out,” Opelka added.
Who Will Reilly Opelka Face Next at Cincinnati Open 2025?
While Opelka prepares for his mixed doubles partnership with Williams, he’s currently focused on his singles campaign at the 2025 Cincinnati Open. He began his tournament run with a first-round victory over Hugo Dellien, winning 7-5, 7-6(3), then advanced to the third round by defeating sixth seed Alex de Minaur 7-6(6), 6-4 in the second round.
Following his victory over de Minaur in the second round of the 2025 Cincinnati Open, Opelka is set to face Francisco Comesaña in the third round of the tournament. Comesaña earned his spot by triumphing over Jaume Munar 6-4, 6-4 in the first round, then overcame 29th seed Luciano Darderi, who retired while trailing 6-4, 3-1 in the second round.
Opelka and Comesaña have never faced each other on the ATP Tour. Their upcoming third-round match will mark the first time these two players compete against one another on the Tour. The winner will advance to face either ninth seed Andrey Rublev or 21st seed Alexei Popyrin in the fourth round.
