Ask Onix
Venus Williams granted wildcard for Australian Open
Venus Williams will become the oldest female competitor in the Australian Open's main draw after organizers awarded her the final women's wildcard for the 2026 tournament.
At 45 years old, the seven-time Grand Slam champion will surpass Japan's Kimiko Date, who last played in Melbourne at age 44 in 2015.
Career milestones and recent performances
Williams made her Australian Open debut in 1998 and has reached the final twice, falling to her sister Serena in both 2003 and 2017. Her most recent appearance at Melbourne Park was in 2021, where she lost in the second round to Italy's Sara Errani.
Last year, Williams returned to the US Open, becoming the third-oldest woman to compete in the tournament's Open era. However, she was eliminated in the first round by Czech player Karolina Muchova in a tightly contested match (6-3, 2-6, 6-1).
Preparation for Melbourne
Williams will warm up for the Australian Open at the Hobart International, which begins on 12 January. She will be joined by Britain's Emma Raducanu at the event.
The American has not competed outside the United States since 2023, making her return to international competition highly anticipated.
Williams expresses gratitude
"I'm grateful for the opportunity to return to a place that has meant so much to my career," Williams said.
Tournament details
The Australian Open is scheduled to start on 18 January at Melbourne Park. Williams' participation marks a historic moment for the tournament and women's tennis.
