Seven-time Grand Slam champion Venus Williams will return to the Australian Open after being granted a wildcard entry, tournament organisers announced on Friday, marking her first appearance at Melbourne Park in five years.
The 45-year-old American last competed at the season-opening Grand Slam in 2021, where she exited in the second round after a loss to Italy’s Sara Errani. Despite featuring in the tournament on 21 previous occasions, Williams has never lifted the Australian Open trophy, finishing runner-up twice — both times losing to her sister Serena Williams in the 2003 and 2017 finals.
Read More: Venus Williams exits US Open in style
“I am excited to be back in Australia and looking forward to competing during the 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.”
With the wildcard entry, Williams will become the oldest woman to feature in the Australian Open main draw, surpassing Japan’s Kimiko Date, who was 44 when she competed at the tournament in 2015.
BREAKING:
Venus Williams has received a wildcard for the 2026 Australian Open.
45 years young legend.
Make way for the 7-time Grand Slam Champ… Queen Vee is back. 👑
🇺🇸❤️ pic.twitter.com/GmDzRiecsR
— The Tennis Letter (@TheTennisLetter) January 1, 2026
The former world number one has endured injury setbacks in recent seasons but has continued to make selective appearances on the WTA Tour. She last played a Grand Slam at the 2025 US Open, where she was eliminated in the opening round by Czech player Karolina Muchova.
Williams’ longevity and continued presence on the professional circuit have made her one of the most enduring figures in tennis history. Since turning professional in 1994, she has won seven Grand Slam singles titles, including five at Wimbledon and two at the US Open, along with 14 Grand Slam doubles titles with sister Serena.
In addition to the Australian Open wildcard, Williams has also accepted an invitation to compete at the Hobart International, a WTA warm-up event beginning on January 12. The tournament will also feature fellow Grand Slam champions Barbora Krejcikova and Emma Raducanu.
Read More: Venus Williams, 45, to play Auckland Classic
Organisers said Williams’ participation would add star power and experience to the early stages of the Australian summer of tennis.