Venus Williams Receives 2026 Australian Open Wild Card at 45

In a notable comeback, Venus Williams, a legend with seven Grand Slam singles victories, is set to make a return to the Australian Open after a five-year break. At 45 years old, she will be the oldest female athlete to enter the main draw of the Australian Open.

Australian Open officials announced on Friday that Williams was given a wild card for the 2026 tournament. This invitation comes 28 years after her debut in 1998, when at just 17, she had an impressive run, including a victory against her sister Serena in the second round, before being defeated by Lindsay Davenport in the quarterfinals.

"The opportunity to come back to Australia is thrilling," expressed Williams. "The country holds a special place in my career with countless unforgettable experiences, and I'm thankful to return."

Previously, Williams made headlines at the 2025 Mubadala Citi DC Open by accepting a wild card in singles competition, where she emerged victorious against much younger opponent Peyton Sterns. This represented her first tour-level match win in nearly two years.

Doubles Success and Future Plans

Williams also shone at the 2025 U.S. Open, reaching the women's doubles quarterfinals alongside Leylah Fernandez. The pair's journey ended with a loss to Taylor Townsend and Kateřina Siniaková.

Looking ahead, Williams has committed to participate in tournaments leading up to the Australian Open. She will play in Auckland, New Zealand on a wild card, and later in Hobart, Australia, as part of her preparation for Melbourne Park.

Her last Australian Open appearance came in 2021, and so far, she boasts a record of 54 wins and 21 losses in her Melbourne campaign. This upcoming event marks her 22nd participation in the main draw.

Record Following

The benchmark for the oldest competitor in an Australian Open is currently held by Kimiko Date of Japan, who participated at age 44 in 2015. Should Venus Williams play this year, she will set a new milestone.

Aside from her professional endeavors, Venus recently celebrated a personal milestone by marrying actor and model Andrea Preti in Florida.