Venus Williams wanted to send a message — to herself and to others — about coming back from a long layoff, about competing in a sport at age 45, about never giving up.

Venus Williams says she is "up to fight" after winning her first match in two years and becoming the oldest woman (45) to win on the tour level since 2004.

Venus Williams is hinting about Serena coming out of retirement, noting the two Palm Beach Gardens residents have practiced together recently.