Venus Williams’ comeback to tennis will continue with a main-draw appearance at the upcoming Australian Open. The 45-year-old American secured one of the tournament’s wild cards last week.
“I’m excited to be back in Australia and looking forward to competing during the Australian summer,” Williams commented. “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.”
The former world No. 1 will become the oldest woman to compete in the Aussie Open main draw, surpassing a record previously set by Japan’s Kimiko Date — who was 44 when she participated in the 2015 event.
Meanwhile, Qinwen Zheng announced her withdrawal from the season’s first Grand Slam on Thursday. The 23-year-old from China struggled with injuries throughout 2025 and is not yet ready to make a comeback.
“I have a special connection to this place,” said the 2024 AO runner-up, “and I was very eager to start my new season at Melbourne Park.”
Venus still playing pretty well
Go Venus!!!
Yes Venus, still playing well in the latter stages of her career
It’s her career mk 2
Exactly