Venus Williams will return to one of tennis’ biggest stages in January, as the seven-time Grand Slam singles champion has been awarded a wild-card entry for the 2026 Australian Open. The season-opening major begins on January 18 at Melbourne Park, marking Williams’ first appearance at the tournament in five years and one of the most remarkable comebacks in modern tennis history.
Venus Williams Defies Age
At 45 years old, Williams is set to become the oldest woman ever to compete in an Australian Open main draw, breaking a record previously held by Japan’s Kimiko Date, who was 44 when she played in Melbourne in 2015. The wildcard will be Williams’ 22nd appearance in the main draw and comes 28 years after her Australian Open debut in 1998.
That first appearance remains memorable. As a 17-year-old, Williams defeated her younger sister Serena Williams in the second round before losing to fellow American Lindsay Davenport in the quarterfinals. Nearly three decades later, Melbourne Park continues to hold a special place in her storied career.
“I’m excited to be back in Australia and looking forward to competing during the Australian summer,” Williams said in a statement released by tournament organisers. “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.”
Despite never lifting the singles trophy in Melbourne, Williams has enjoyed significant success at the tournament. She reached the Australian Open singles final twice, finishing runner-up to Serena in 2003 and 2017, and owns an impressive 54–21 win–loss record at Melbourne Park.
Williams last competed at the Australian Open in 2021 before stepping away from regular tour action due to injuries and health challenges.
As part of her build-up to the Australian Open, Williams will play a series of warm-up events during the Australian summer. She is set to compete at the Auckland tournament in New Zealand, where she has also received a wild card, followed by the Hobart International the week before the Australian Open begins.
Beyond the court, the wildcard comes during a meaningful personal chapter for Williams. In late December, she married Danish-born model and actor Andrea Preti in Palm Beach, Florida, adding a celebratory note to her return to the global tennis spotlight.
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A five-time Wimbledon champion and two-time US Open winner, Williams remains one of the most influential figures in tennis history. Her impact extends beyond titles, having helped redefine power, athleticism, and longevity in the women’s game.
As the Australian Open approaches, attention will turn not only to how far Williams can advance in the draw, but also to the symbolism of her presence. At 45, her return to Melbourne Park stands as a testament to perseverance, passion, and an enduring love for competition- qualities that have defined her career from the very beginning.
