Venus Williams enjoyed a winning return to tennis after more than a year away from the game as the 45-year-old American teamed up with compatriot Hailey Baptiste to win their round of 16 women's doubles tie at the Washington Open on Monday.

Venus Williams celebrates victory in the women's doubles at the Washington Open after a 16-month absence, while Britain's Dan Evans and Cameron Norris advance to the second round.

Venus Williams has competed at a tournament for the first time in more than a year — and in doubles for the first time in nearly three — and has come out with a victory.