From Stan Wawrinka to Venus Williams: All Australian Open 2026 Wildcards

Australian Open 2026: When this year’s Australian Open begins on Sunday, all eyes will be on one particular match at the John Cain Arena in Melbourne. American tennis icon Venus Williams will face Serbia’s Olga Danilovic in what promises to be a memorable encounter.

The 45-year-old Williams, who reached the Australian Open finals in 2003 and 2017, will make history as the oldest woman to play in the singles main draw at a Major. She will break the record previously held by Japan’s Kimiko Date, who was 44 when she lost in the first round of the Australian Open in 2015.

Seven-Time Major Winner Among Wildcards

Venus Williams, a seven-time Major champion, is one of eight women granted main draw wildcards for the first Grand Slam of the season. Her participation adds an exciting mix of history and experience to the tournament.

Williams’ appearance in Melbourne also highlights the Australian Open’s tradition of celebrating longevity and resilience in the sport. Over the years, the tournament has seen veteran players return to the court to inspire fans and younger athletes alike. For many spectators, seeing a player of Williams’ stature competing once again on the Grand Slam stage adds an emotional and historic layer to the opening rounds.

Stan Wawrinka Headlines Men’s Wildcards

On the men’s side, Switzerland’s Stan Wawrinka is the standout wildcard. Wawrinka won the first of his three Major titles in Melbourne back in 2014, and at 40 years old, he is set to retire at the end of the season. This will be his final Australian Open campaign. He will open his run against Serbia’s Laslo Djere in the first round.