Venus Williams sees record-breaking Australian Open return end in heartbreak

Venus Williams became the oldest woman to play in a singles match at the Australian Open - (AFP via Getty Images)

Venus Williams made history by stepping onto the court at the Australian Open but was denied a winning return as Serbia’s Olga Danilovic won the final six games in a row to triumph in a three-set thriller.

At 45, Williams became the oldest woman to compete in the singles tournament after accepting a wildcard into the main draw. The seven-time grand slam champion, who returned to Melbourne for the first time in five years, started well and delighted the crowd by ripping a stunning forehand winner to take the first set on a tiebreak.