Venus Williams is heading back to Melbourne Park — and into the record books.
The Australian Open has granted the seven-time Grand Slam singles champion a wild-card entry for the main draw starting January 18, setting up a milestone moment: at 45, Williams is expected to become the oldest woman to compete in an Australian Open main draw, passing the previous mark held by Japan’s Kimiko Date, who played in Melbourne at 44 in 2015.
It will be Williams’ first appearance at the season-opening major since 2021 and her 22nd time in the Australian Open main draw. Tournament organisers also highlighted just how deep her history in Melbourne runs — she first played the event in 1998, a debut that included a second-round win over her younger sister Serena Williams before a quarterfinal loss to fellow American Lindsay Davenport.
Williams has come close to lifting the trophy at Melbourne Park, finishing runner-up twice — both times losing to Serena in the finals in 2003 and 2017. Overall, her Australian Open singles record stands at 54 wins and 21 losses, a reminder that this isn’t just a cameo appearance on a famous stage; it’s a return to a venue where she’s produced some of her biggest tennis.
“I’m excited to be back in Australia and looking forward to competing during the Australian summer,” Williams said in a statement. “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.”
Her comeback isn’t only about one tournament, either. Williams has already signaled she wants matches in her legs before Melbourne, announcing plans to play in Auckland (where she has also received a wildcard) two weeks before the Australian Open. She is also entered for Hobart the week before the Australian Open begins, giving her a run of competitive tune-ups during the Australian summer swing.
The wildcard news lands at a moment when Williams’ career has become increasingly selective — but still historic. Every time she steps back onto a big-court stage, she draws a familiar mix of curiosity and respect: can she turn experience into wins against a younger generation, and can she stay healthy enough to build momentum? Either way, Melbourne is about to witness another chapter in one of tennis’ most enduring stories.
For the official tournament announcement and details on the 2026 event, you can read more via the Australian Open’s update on Venus Williams’ wildcard.
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