NEW YORK — In a moment that transcended the boundaries of sport and celebrity, tennis legend Venus Williams, at 45, has officially confirmed her engagement to Italian-Danish actor and filmmaker Andrea Preti. The revelation, delivered with an almost palpable joy during a heartfelt on-court interview after a remarkable singles victory at the 2025 Citi DC Open, sent ripples of excitement across the globe. This deeply personal announcement, coming after a challenging 16-month hiatus from singles competition, beautifully underscored a triumphant return not just to the court, but to a profoundly fulfilling personal chapter.
Williams’ electrifying comeback win over World No. 35 Peyton Stearns, a straight-sets masterclass, was already making headlines, marking her as the oldest WTA player to secure a main-draw victory since Martina Navratilova in 2004. Yet, it was her radiant confession – “My fiancé is here. He really encouraged me to keep playing… He encouraged me to get through this, and it’s wonderful to be here. He’s never seen me play.” – that truly captured the world’s imagination. This candid glimpse into her private life, revealing the steadfast support behind her enduring athletic spirit, offers an inspiring narrative of resilience and profound connection.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Andrea Preti |
| Nationality | Italian-Danish |
| Age (as of 2025) | 37 years old |
| Primary Occupations | Actor, Model, Filmmaker, Writer, Director |
| Notable Works | Directorial debut “One More Day” (2014), “The Wolf Man” (short film), “Animals” (writer) |
| Fiancée | Venus Williams |
| Engagement Confirmed | July 2025 |
| Wedding Scheduled | September 2025 (Amalfi Coast, Italy) |
| Official Reference | Andrea Preti’s IMDb Profile |
Andrea Preti, the man who has undeniably captured the heart of the seven-time Grand Slam champion, brings a compelling narrative of his own. Born in Denmark and raised in Italy, Preti’s artistic journey began early, leading him from the high-stakes world of fashion modeling to the rigorous training grounds of the Susan Batson Studio in New York City. His career, thoughtfully cultivated over more than a decade, showcases a versatile talent, encompassing roles in television, commercials, and independent films. Beyond acting, Preti has remarkably stepped behind the camera, making his directorial debut in 2014 with “One More Day,” a film he also penned and starred in. His subsequent projects, like the short film “The Wolf Man” and a poignant exploration of 19th-century homophobia in southern Italy, reveal a filmmaker with a keen eye for compelling storytelling and social commentary. By integrating his diverse experiences, Preti embodies a modern creative, constantly pushing artistic boundaries.
The romance between Williams and Preti, while largely private, has unfolded like a beautifully crafted screenplay, captivating fans with each new detail. Their journey began in July 2024, with whispers of a burgeoning relationship emerging from a serene yacht vacation along Italy’s breathtaking Amalfi Coast. These initial sightings were followed by a cozy Instagram Story from Williams in January 2025, featuring Preti during a Bahamian getaway, affectionately calling him “the best company.” The couple then made their relationship undeniably public at Milan Fashion Week earlier this year, sealing their bond with a red carpet kiss that instantly ignited engagement speculation. The rumors intensified when Williams was spotted in February 2025, sporting a dazzling ring during a tennis practice session in Rome, with Preti steadfastly by her side. This carefully guarded, yet profoundly genuine, progression culminated in the joyous confirmation in July 2025, with their wedding now eagerly anticipated for September 2025 on the romantic Amalfi Coast, a fitting backdrop for such a passionate union.
For an athlete of Williams’ caliber, navigating the intense demands of a professional career alongside a blossoming personal life is a testament to extraordinary dedication and balance. Her candid admission about Preti’s encouragement during her health challenges and comeback speaks volumes, highlighting the invaluable role of a supportive partner. This dynamic mirrors the experiences of countless high-achieving individuals who find that true strength often comes from shared burdens and unwavering belief. As industry experts often note, the synergy between personal well-being and professional excellence is incredibly effective, allowing athletes to perform at their peak, knowing they have a solid foundation off-court. Preti’s presence has clearly been a powerful catalyst, propelling Williams forward even when she felt like “coasting.”
Looking ahead, the future for Venus Williams and Andrea Preti shines with an undeniable brilliance. Their impending nuptials on the picturesque Amalfi Coast promise to be a joyous celebration, marking a new chapter in both their lives. For Williams, who continues to defy age and expectations on the tennis court, this personal milestone adds another layer of inspiration to her already legendary career. Her story, now intertwined with Preti’s, serves as a powerful reminder that love, support, and perseverance are the ultimate champions, capable of overcoming any challenge. As the world eagerly awaits their September wedding, the union of these two remarkable individuals stands as a beacon of hope and happiness, persuasively demonstrating that even after decades in the spotlight, the most beautiful stories are still waiting to be written.
