Venus Williams, one of the most celebrated figures in modern tennis, has entered a new chapter in her life—one filled with romance, renewal and the promise of partnership. The 45-year-old American superstar has officially announced her engagement to 37-year-old Andrea Preti, an Italian-Danish actor, model and film producer. The news comes after months of whispers, paparazzi snapshots and unspoken hints that the pair had grown exceptionally close.
Their love story first reached the public eye in July 2024, when they were photographed enjoying a private boat trip along the sun-soaked Amalfi Coast. The images captured a relaxed Williams laughing freely beside Preti—an unusually candid moment for someone who has guarded her personal life with steadfast discretion throughout her career. Although fans were quick to speculate about a burgeoning romance, both Williams and Preti chose silence.
The intrigue deepened in February 2025 when Williams was seen strolling through Rome with a gleaming diamond ring adorning her ring finger. Social media erupted with theories, yet Williams maintained her privacy, evading questions and offering no confirmation. That changed on 22 July, when after securing a hard-fought victory at a tournament, Williams openly referred to Preti as her fiancé, revealing that his encouragement had helped her remain driven on the court. Still, it was not until December that she chose to share photographs of the two together, officially confirming what many had already suspected.
For enthusiasts of Williams’s career, this engagement is particularly significant. Despite having been in several long-term relationships, none had previously progressed to an engagement. She dated professional golfer Hank Kuehne between 2007 and 2010, followed by a meaningful partnership with Cuban model Elio Pis starting in 2012. Pis and Williams collaborated on the relaunch of her fashion label “EleVen”, blending their creative visions until their relationship concluded around 2015. Later, she formed a partnership with businessman Nicholas Hammond, with whom she shared a home for two years. There were further murmurs in 2021 suggesting a connection with another tennis professional, though neither party confirmed the rumours.
In 2022, Williams remarked candidly that she had been single for a long period and had grown to appreciate independence. She described the beauty of living alone, while also expressing openness to love should the right person come along. Evidently, Andrea Preti has become that person. Her willingness to share photographs of him online—a first in her public life—speaks volumes about the depth and comfort of their relationship.
As wedding preparations begin, Serena Williams has enthusiastically stepped into the role of event planner. Reports suggest that she is organising everything from the bridal wardrobe and beauty styling to the broader festivities. The wedding, anticipated for January, is likely to be held in Italy, a nation that has quietly accompanied the couple’s journey from its earliest days.
The engagement has sparked an overwhelming wave of congratulations from fans, fellow athletes and public figures who have long admired Williams not only for her athletic achievements but also for her dignity, confidence and resilience. For many, the announcement represents more than a personal milestone—it symbolises joy earned through patience, independence and an open heart.
Venus Williams’s life has long been defined by discipline, excellence and an unwavering competitive spirit. Now, with her engagement to Andrea Preti, she begins a new chapter—one marked by companionship, mutual inspiration and the shared promise of what is still to come.