Seven-time Grand Slam singles champion Venus Williams has secured a wildcard entry for the 2026 Australian Open, establishing a new record as the oldest female competitor in the history of the tournament. At 45 years old, the American legend returns to the main draw at Melbourne Park for the first time since 2021, marking a significant milestone in a career that has spanned nearly three decades.
Organizers confirmed the invitation on Friday, January 2, 2026, paving the way for Williams to surpass the age record previously held by Japan’s Kimiko Date, who competed in the event at age 44 in 2015.
“I’m excited to be back in Australia and looking forward to competing during the Australian summer,” said Williams. “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.”
Williams boasts an illustrious resume that includes five Wimbledon titles and two US Open championships. While a singles title in Melbourne has eluded her, she reached the final in 2003 and 2017 and holds four Australian Open doubles titles. The veteran athlete recently revitalized her schedule following a 16-month hiatus, having re-entered the professional circuit at the US Open last year. To prepare for the upcoming Grand Slam, which runs from January 18 to February 1, she will first compete at the Auckland Classic next week followed by the Hobart International.
The news of her return has resonated throughout the tennis world, drawing praise from younger stars on the tour. World No. 3 Coco Gauff expressed her admiration for the trailblazer’s enduring presence in the sport.
“She’s a legend of the sport, so it will be cool to see her back in action,” she said. “It’s incredible the longevity of her career. She’s one of the people I looked up to, so looking forward to seeing her back on court.”
Williams enters the 2026 season with 54 career wins at Melbourne Park, and her 22nd appearance in the main draw underscores her status as one of the most resilient figures in modern athletics. Her participation highlights a busy Australian summer of tennis, following her high-profile marriage to Andrea Preti in late 2025. Fans and analysts eagerly anticipate her opening match, which represents a historic 28 years since her Australian Open debut in 1998.
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