Melbourne, Jan 2, 2026 — American tennis legend Venus Williams is set to make a historic return to the Australian Open at the age of 45 after receiving a wildcard entry for the year’s first Grand Slam.
With this appearance, the seven-time Grand Slam singles champion will become the oldest female player ever to compete in the main draw of the Australian Open. Williams has played very few singles matches in recent years and will feature in the Melbourne Park main draw for the first time since 2021.
“I’m incredibly excited to be back in Australia,” Venus said in a statement. “I can’t wait to step on the court during the Australian summer. I have so many great memories here, and I’m grateful to everyone involved for this opportunity at this stage of my career. It means a lot to me.”
Williams has won five Wimbledon titles and two US Open singles crowns during her illustrious career. Although she has never lifted the Australian Open singles trophy, she reached the final twice, in 2003 and 2017.
Previously, Japan’s Kimiko Date held the record as the oldest female player to compete at the Australian Open, having played at the age of 44 in 2015. Venus has now surpassed that milestone.
A four-time Australian Open doubles champion, Williams will begin her preparations with the Auckland Classic next week, followed by participation in the Hobart Open.
The Australian Open will be held from January 18 to February 1. Venus returned to competitive tennis at last year’s US Open after a 16-month absence from the tour.
Venus Williams Returns to Australian Open at 45
Seven-time Grand Slam champion receives wildcard, becomes oldest female player to compete in the season’s first major
Venus Williams returns to Melbourne Park after receiving a wildcard for the Australian Open at age 45.
