Venus Williams ties the knot with Andrea Preti in a modern-day fairytale wedding

Venus Williams, the iconic tennis legend, has once again captured the world’s attention, not with her legendary forehand, but with a love story fit for a modern-day fairytale.

The 45-year-old sports superstar said “I do” to actor and producer Andrea Preti, sealing their love with not one, but two unforgettable wedding celebrations. Their journey is more than a tale of romance; it's a heartfelt ode to love, family, and the relationships that shape us.

According to "Vogue", Venus and Preti tied the knot in two stunning ceremonies, each radiating its own unique charm and significance. The first took place on September 18 in the picturesque island of Ischia, Italy.

She shared that Italy had always been their dream wedding destination, but logistical challenges meant they couldn’t make it official there.

“We had this dream to do our wedding in Italy,” she explained, “but we didn’t have enough time to do the paperwork because I’m a foreigner, it can take about eight months. So we decided to have a second wedding.”

The second ceremony brought the magic stateside to Palm Beach, Florida, Venus' home turf. Planned by Jennifer Zabinski of JZ Events, the same powerhouse planner behind her sister Serena Williams’ 2017 wedding, the Florida event was a five-day extravaganza filled with love, laughter, and personal touches.

“They always say weddings go so fast, and they do,” Venus reflected during her interview. To make the most of the moment, the couple started the festivities early, kicking off the week with an intimate yacht party, which was a gift from Serena.

“Serena gave us this beautiful yacht and arranged all the food, everything,” Venus said. “We danced, sang, gossiped, and just enjoyed each other.”

From a bridal shower to a romantic dinner at Miami’s exclusive Sopra members’ club, the week was a reflection of Venus’ love for her family and friends.

On December 19, the couple exchanged vows in a courthouse wedding, where Venus wore a stunning Morilee New York dress. Preti described the moment as “unique, emotional, and deep,” calling it the “second-best day” of his life, second only to their main wedding celebration.

Every detail of the wedding felt intentional, a testament to the couple’s commitment to honouring their loved ones.

Preti walked down the aisle with his mother to the Jackson 5’s “I’ll Be There”, a song he said represented his mother’s unwavering support for Venus. She chose to walk to Irama’s “Ovunque Sarai”, a moving tribute to her grandmother, who passed away during the pandemic.

The couple exchanged self-written vows, a deeply personal moment that set the tone for their life together. As they recessed, Stevie Wonder’s “Signed, Sealed, Delivered” filled the air, capturing the joy and celebration of their union.

Later, they shared their first dance to the Flamingos’ classic “I Only Have Eyes for You” before celebrating late into the night at Sophia’s Hobe Sound restaurant.

A love built on encouragement

Venus and Preti’s love story is as inspiring as her career. The couple’s engagement became public in July when Venus subtly confirmed it during a post-match interview.

“My fiancé is here, and he really encouraged me to keep playing,” she admitted after the interviewer spotted Preti in the audience.

Her words revealed a deeper side of their relationship, his unwavering support during her most challenging moments.

“There were so many times I just wanted to coast and chill,” Venus said. “Do you know how hard it is to play tennis? It’s like a 9-to-5 where you’re running the whole time, lifting weights, and dying, only to do it all again the next day. He encouraged me to get through this, and it’s wonderful to be here.”

For Venus, family has always been her anchor. Her sister, Serena, who’s been by her side through every triumph and challenge, shared an emotional tribute on Instagram.

“My sister’s keeper,” Serena began. “Venus, where do I even begin? From the backyard courts to the biggest stages in the world, you’ve always led with grace, strength, and a heart bigger than any trophy.”

She described Venus’ wedding as “watching the sun rise… steady, powerful, and full of promise.”

“Toasting to love, partnership, and a lifetime of choosing each other,” Serena added, “I couldn’t be prouder to stand beside you, not just today, but always.”