Melbourne, Australia – January 2, 2026: Tennis legend Venus Williams is set to make a historic return to the Australian Open after being granted a wildcard into the main draw, becoming the oldest woman to compete at the season-opening Grand Slam at the age of 45. This marks her first singles appearance at Melbourne Park since 2021.
Williams, a seven-time Grand Slam singles champion, has played only a limited schedule in recent years, focusing on doubles and selective singles events. She will aim to add to her remarkable career as she competes in one of tennis’s most physically demanding tournaments.
“I’m excited to be back in Australia and looking forward to competing during the Australian summer,” Williams said on Friday. “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.”
Career Highlights
Venus Williams’s decorated career spans more than two decades, during which she has established herself as one of the greatest female tennis players of all time:
- Wimbledon titles: 5
- US Open titles: 2
- Australian Open doubles titles: 4
- Australian Open singles finalist: 2003, 2017
Her longevity and competitive spirit place her among a select group of athletes who continue to perform at the highest level well into their 40s. Her appearance at the 2026 Australian Open will surpass Japan’s Kimiko Date, who competed at the age of 44 in 2015, making Williams the oldest female singles player in the tournament’s history.
Road to the 2026 Australian Open
Williams will kick off her preparation for Melbourne with the Auckland Classic next week, marking her return to the professional circuit following a 16-month hiatus. She will then participate in the Hobart International, a key warm-up event prior to the Australian Open, allowing her to regain match fitness and competitive rhythm.
Fellow American and two-time Grand Slam champion Coco Gauff praised Williams’s return:
“It’s incredible to see her still turning up for tournaments. She’s a legend of the sport, so it will be cool to see her back in action. The longevity of her career is inspiring. I looked up to her growing up, and it will be amazing to watch her compete again.”
Significance of Williams’s Return
Williams’s wildcard entry is more than just a personal milestone; it represents the continuing evolution of professional tennis, where experience, mental toughness, and strategic play remain invaluable. Her presence is expected to inspire not only fellow players but also a new generation of fans and aspiring athletes.
In addition, her participation at age 45 underscores the trend of extended careers in women’s tennis, joining the ranks of players like Serena Williams, Kimiko Date, and Venus’s contemporaries who have defied conventional age expectations.
Key Information
- Tournament: 2026 Australian Open
- Location: Melbourne Park, Australia
- Dates: January 18 – February 1, 2026
- Wildcard Entry: Granted for main draw singles competition
- Preparatory Tournaments: Auckland Classic, Hobart International
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