Venus Williams receives Australian Open Wildcard at 45, makes history in Melbourne

Venus Williams will make history at the Australian Open after receiving a wildcard into the main draw at the age of 45, becoming the oldest woman to compete at the season-opening Grand Slam in the Open Era.

The seven-time major singles champion has played only sparingly in recent seasons but will return to 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.”

A Historic Return

Williams will surpass Kimiko Date, who was 44 when she played her final Australian Open match in 2015, as the tournament’s oldest female competitor.

The American icon is a five-time Wimbledon champion, a two-time US Open winner, and a four-time Australian Open doubles champion. She reached the Australian Open singles final in 2003 and again in 2017, showcasing her longevity at the highest level.

Road to Melbourne

Williams is set to begin her Australian summer at the Auckland Classic next week before heading to the Hobart International as final preparation ahead of the Australian Open, which runs from January 18 to February 1.

She returned to competitive tennis at last year’s US Open following a 16-month break from the tour.

Praise From the Next Generation

Fellow American and two-time Grand Slam champion Coco Gauff described Williams’ return as inspiring.

“She’s a legend of the sport, so it will be cool to see her back in action,” Gauff said. “It’s incredible the longevity of her career. She’s one of the people I looked up to.”

SportsLigue