Seven-time Grand Slam singles champion, Venus Williams will make history at the Australian Open, receiving a wildcard at 45 and becoming the oldest woman ever to compete in the season-opening major.
The American star will return to 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 opportunity to return to a place that has meant so much to my career.”
Williams, a finalist at the Australian Open in 2003 and 2017, boasts five Wimbledon titles and two US Open victories.
She will surpass Japan’s Kimiko Date as the oldest woman to play at Melbourne Park, with Date having been 44 when she exited in the first round in 2015.
In addition to her singles success, Williams has claimed four Australian Open doubles titles.
She plans to kick off her preparations for the January 18–February 1 tournament at the Auckland Classic next week, following her return to the tour at last year’s US Open after a 16-month hiatus.
