(Reuters) -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.

Alexander Bublik secures his first title on clay, while all eyes will be on Venus Williams this week in Washington, D.C.