‘She's a legend': Venus Williams' husband reveals how marriage reshaped her life and tennis
Sep 02, 2026
Venus Williams is embarking on a new chapter as a married woman competing on the biggest tennis stages.
While the seven‑time Grand Slam singles champion is on the road often, she is based in Florida with her husband, Andrea Preti. He says the work she puts into her game each day is staggering a
nd continues to inspire him.
When asked what his favorite thing is to see from her on the court, Preti didn’t hesitate.
“When she smiles, it’s the best thing,” he told NBC at a pre-U.S. Open event at the Langham Hotel, New York. “There’s so much work behind that smile, you can’t imagine. She’s still out there grinding every morning at 6:30 in Florida, three hours on the court, two hours in the gym. I’m calling her, ‘Babe, stop, let’s go in,’ and she just keeps pushing. She’s a legend.”
Williams says marriage has reshaped their daily routine, especially the mornings, when most of her training is accomplished.
“He’s fighting hard every step of the way. In the morning, we live in Florida; it’s hot as hell. We’re up at 6 and start at 8 because it’s already too hot, and he’s up too, helping me with everything I have. Getting the dog up, anything in between. He could be doing anything else, but he’s there. We have so much fun together.”
Venus Williams learning about Estheraphy at The Langham Hotel. Photo credit: Joseph Stella Studio
That support extends beyond the court. Williams says her new family dynamic has brought joy and stability, including a warm relationship with her in‑laws.
“They’re really nice, and I’m really fortunate to have in‑laws who are super nice. They like me, so far. We’re like a happy family.”
Williams’ in‑laws, Mauro Preti and Giovanna Fausto, were in attendance for the conversation at the luxury hotel, which is hosting players, their teams and fans from around the world for the U.S. Open.
Williams also shared that one of their favorite things to do as a couple is escape rooms. She added, “My husband loves escape rooms, except there’s a twist. He loves frightening rooms. Oh, it’s live actors, so we do those sometimes. I don’t scare easy, but they’re pretty scary.”
Venus Williams joins a private conversation at The Langham Hotel. Photo credit: Joseph Stella Studio
Williams and Preti first met during Milan Fashion Week in July 2024 at a Gucci show. Preti, an Italian actor, director and former model, later described their connection as immediate. He proposed on January 31, 2025, during a trip to Tuscany.
The couple officially married in September 2025 across two celebrations, beginning with an intimate gathering in Ischia, Italy, followed by a civil courthouse wedding and a week of festivities in Palm Beach, Florida.
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