Melbourne: Venus Williams has received a wildcard entry for the Australian Open, becoming the oldest female player to feature in the tournament’s main draw at the age of 45.
The seven-time Grand Slam champion has been granted the final women’s wildcard for the season-opening major, which begins on January 18 in Melbourne.
Williams has last competed at the Australian Open in 2021, when the American was beaten in the second round by Italy’s Sara Errani. Williams return to Melbourne Park marks another milestone in a career that has spanned more than three decades at the highest level of professional tennis.
The former world number one has twice reached the final of the Australian Open, finishing runner-up in 2003 and again in 2017. By taking her place in the main draw this year, Williams is set to surpass the previous age record held by Japan’s Kimiko Date, who competed at the tournament at 44 in 2015.
In addition to her Melbourne appearance, Williams has also accepted a wildcard for the Hobart International warm-up event, which starts on January 12. The tournament will also feature Britain’s Emma Raducanu, providing Williams with competitive match practice ahead of the Australian Open.
Williams has not played competitive tennis outside the United States since 2023. Williams made a high-profile return at the US Open last year, becoming the third-oldest woman to compete at the tournament in the Open era. That run ended with a first-round defeat to Czech player Karolina Muchova in a three-set match.
Despite limited appearances in recent seasons, Williams has remained one of the most influential figures in women’s tennis. Her longevity, resilience and continued presence on the sport’s biggest stages have made her comeback a significant moment for the Australian Open and for tennis more broadly.
Tournament organisers have highlighted her legacy and global appeal as key factors behind the wildcard decision, with fans now set to see one of the sport’s most decorated players return to Melbourne Park once again.
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