Venus Williams, the former world No. 1 tennis player, got married to Italian actor and model Andrea Preti in Palm Beach, Florida, last week. The couple made it official at a courthouse on December 19, 2025, after a year of dating that moved quickly from a chance meeting to wedding vows.
The two first crossed paths in early 2024 at a Gucci fashion show in Milan. They started talking because both speak Italian. Williams has spent time in Italy over the years, and Preti is from there. The conversation clicked right away. Soon after, they met each other’s families over breakfast in London. Friends say both sides liked the other person almost immediately.
Their relationship grew serious fast. When Williams faced a health issue that required surgery later in 2024, Preti stayed by her side through the whole process. People close to the couple say that time brought them even closer.
On January 31, 2025, Preti proposed to Williams during a trip to Tuscany. She said yes. The couple then held a small symbolic ceremony on the island of Ischia, off the coast of Naples, with just a few family members present. That event felt personal and tied to Preti’s Italian roots.
The official marriage took place quietly at the Palm Beach County courthouse on December 19. Afterward, they hosted a bigger celebration over several days in Palm Beach. Guests included close friends and relatives who flew in from Italy and other parts of the U.S.
The weekend included relaxed gatherings like yacht trips along the coast, poolside parties, and dinners. Williams wore custom-made gowns for different parts of the events. One dress was designed specifically for the courthouse signing, and others for the parties. Music played a big role too. Some songs were chosen as tributes to family members, including Williams’ late grandmother.
Serena Williams attended with other sisters from the family. The guest list stayed small on purpose. Williams has said in the past that she values privacy, especially for personal milestones.
In a short statement shared with a few media outlets, Williams described the day as the happiest of her life. She mentioned being surrounded by people she loves most. Preti has kept a lower profile but posted a simple photo from the celebration on his social media with a heart emoji.
The wedding comes at a time when Venus Williams, now 45, has stepped back from full-time tennis competition. She still plays select events and runs her design and business projects. Preti, known for roles in Italian films and modelling work, splits time between Europe and the U.S.
Friends say the couple plans to divide their time between homes in Florida and Italy. For now, they are enjoying the holidays in Palm Beach after the festivities wrapped up.
The low-key yet joyful celebration fits Williams’ style in recent years. She has focused more on life away from the court while still staying connected to the sport that made her famous. This marriage marks a new chapter for the seven-time Grand Slam singles champion.
