Key Points:
- Seven-time Grand Slam champion Venus Williams receives a wildcard for the 2026 Australian Open.
- At age 45, she becomes the oldest woman ever in the tournament’s main draw.
- Williams last competed at Melbourne Park in 2021 and will also play a Hobart warm-up event
American tennis star Venus Williams will return to the Australian Open in January after receiving a wildcard into the main draw. The tournament’s organizers announced that the 45-year-old veteran will compete in Melbourne Park for the first time since 2021. Her entry marks a memorable chapter in one of the sport’s most enduring careers.
Williams has captured seven Grand Slam singles titles during her illustrious career and stands among the most influential figures in women’s tennis. Her return to the Australian Open underscores her ongoing passion for the sport and her ability to compete at the highest level even as a veteran of the tour.
The wildcard grants Williams a spot in the main draw of the year’s first major, beginning January 18 in Melbourne. She last played at the Australian Open in 2021, exiting in the second round. That appearance came during a period when she was already transitioning toward reduced activity on the circuit.
With this opportunity, Williams will set a new record as the oldest woman ever to compete in the Australian Open main draw. The previous benchmark was held by Japan’s Kimiko Date, who played at age 44 in 2015. Williams now exceeds that mark and adds another milestone to her long career.
Organizers also awarded her a wildcard into the Hobart International, a warm-up event scheduled for January 12. That fixture gives Williams match play before the Australian Open begins and places her alongside other major champions in early 2026 competition.
Williams’ connection to the Australian Open runs deep. She first appeared at Melbourne Park in 1998 and posted an impressive record over more than two decades. She reached the singles final twice but never clinched the title, finishing runner-up to her sister Serena Williams in 2003 and 2017.
Her career spans an era of profound change in women’s tennis, during which she helped elevate the sport’s profile and inspire generations of players worldwide. Williams also holds five Wimbledon singles crowns and two US Open titles, showcasing her versatility and dominance on grass and hard courts alike.
In recent seasons, Williams has balanced limited singles play with selective tournament appearances. She made a notable comeback in 2025, winning a first-round match at the DC Open and competing at major events before returning home. Her presence on tour continues to attract attention and admiration.
Fans and commentators greeted the wildcard news with enthusiasm. Many view her return not only as a competitive opportunity but also as a celebration of her legacy. Her longevity and resilience have made her a beloved figure in tennis, and her participation will boost interest as the sport enters a new season.
Williams will face fresh challenges at the Australian Open, where rising stars and established contenders alike aim for glory. Yet her return highlights a broader narrative in sport: that passion and dedication can endure beyond conventional peak years.
As Melbourne approaches, all eyes will be on Williams and her quest to make history. Whether she advances deep into the draw or enjoys the moment of competing again, her story continues to inspire players and fans around the globe.
