Queen V may have bowed out early in Auckland, but the real story is her response to the wildcard debate. At 45, Venus Williams showed she can still hang with the younger crowd, pushing Magda Linette to three sets. Critics questioned her Australian Open wildcard, but Venus fired back with trademark poise, saying the fire still burns. Gauff and fans rallied behind her, proving legends never fade quietly. Next stop: Hobart and the AO. Can Venus silence the doubters with a deep run? #Sports #Tennis #VenusWilliams