Seven-time Grand Slam singles champion Venus Williams has been awarded a wildcard for the Australian Open at the age of 45, making her the oldest woman ever to compete at the season-opening major.
The American, who has played a limited singles schedule in recent years, will feature in the main draw at Melbourne Park for the first time since 2021.
“I’m excited to be back in Australia and looking forward to competing during the Australian summer,” Williams said. “I’ve had so many incredible memories there, and I’m grateful for the chance to return to a place that has meant so much to my career.”
A five-time Wimbledon winner and two-time US Open champion, Williams reached the Australian Open singles final in 2003 and 2017. She will now surpass Japan’s Kimiko Date, who was 44 when she played the tournament in 2015, as the oldest woman to appear in the event.
A four-time Australian Open doubles champion, Williams is set to begin her build-up for the January 18–February 1 tournament at the Auckland Classic next week, before heading to the Hobart International. She returned to competitive action at the US Open last year after a 16-month hiatus.
Two-time Grand Slam champion Coco Gauff described Williams’ return as “incredible,” praising her longevity and influence on the sport. “She’s a legend, and it will be great to see her back on court,” Gauff said.
0 Comments