By Micah Jonah
January 18, 2026
Seven-time Grand Slam champion, Venus Williams expressed gratitude to Australian Open organizers after receiving a wildcard that will make the 45-year-old American the oldest woman ever to compete in the singles main draw.
Williams returned to tennis last season after a 16-month break, has recently competed in the Auckland Classic and Hobart International, both times exiting in the first round. She will face 24-year-old Serbian Olga Danilovic, ranked 68th, in the first round at Melbourne Park.
“It’s been five years since I have been here. They flew by, and I’m super, super grateful for the opportunity from Tennis Australia,” Williams said. “Grateful for the opportunity to play in front of the fans. I have just received so much support in the tournaments leading up, walking around the city, everything. My hope is to play my best.”
The wildcard allocation has drawn debate, with some questioning whether Williams deserves a spot over younger players. Former champions Andy Roddick and Kim Clijsters publicly supported her participation. Twice a finalist at Melbourne Park, Williams will surpass Japan’s Kimiko Date, who was 44 when she competed in the 2015 Australian Open.
Williams, who has been training intensively while preparing for her December wedding, emphasized the importance of being kind to herself, focusing on her performance on court.
