Venus Williams, one of the greatest players in the history of tennis, is set to script history after receiving a wildcard entry into the Australian Open main draw, becoming the oldest woman to compete at the tournament in the Open Era.
The seven-time Grand Slam singles champion will surpass Japan’s Kimiko Date, who was 44 when she played at the 2015 Australian Open. Venus last featured at Melbourne Park in 2021 and will return to the Grand Slam stage at the age of 45.
“I’m excited to be back in Australia and looking forward to competing during the Australian summer,” Venus said in a statement. “I’ve had so many incredible memories there, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to return to a place that has meant so much to my career.”
Venus Williams at the Australian Open
Venus made her Australian Open debut in 1998, memorably defeating sister Serena Williams in the second round before losing to Lindsay Davenport in the quarterfinals. Although she never won the singles title in Melbourne, she reached the final twice — in 2003 and 2017 — finishing runner-up to Serena on both occasions.
She enjoyed significant success in doubles at the Australian Open, winning titles in 2001, 2003, 2009, and 2010, all alongside Serena Williams.
Recent Form and Preparation
Venus’ most recent Grand Slam appearance came at the US Open last year, where she exited in the first round of singles against Karolina Muchova and also bowed out early in mixed doubles with Riley Opelka. However, she showed signs of resurgence by reaching the quarterfinals of the women’s doubles alongside Leylah Fernandez — her first Grand Slam last-eight finish since 2017.
As part of her build-up to the Australian Open, Venus will compete at the Auckland Classic next week, followed by the Hobart International.
The Australian Open 2026 is scheduled to begin on January 18, with both men’s and women’s singles events kicking off the season’s first Grand Slam.
Personal Milestone and Sister’s Contrast
Off the court, the tennis icon recently marked a personal milestone, marrying Italian actor Andrea Preti in a five-day wedding celebration held in Florida earlier this month. Meanwhile, her younger sister Serena Williams has recently denied any plans of returning to competitive tennis, making Venus’ Australian Open comeback all the more remarkable.
With her return, Venus Williams once again adds a historic chapter to an already legendary career, proving that age remains just a number at the highest level of sport.
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