Venus Williams’ return to tennis will continue with a main-draw appearance at the upcoming Australian Open. The 45-year-old American received one of the wildest cards in the tournament last week.
“I’m excited to be back in Australia and I’m looking forward to competing during the Australian summer,” Williams commented. “I’ve had so many wonderful 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 a major tournament at the Aussie Open, surpassing the record previously held by Japan’s Kimiko Date — who was 44 when she took part in the event in 2015.
Meanwhile, Qinwen Zheng announced her withdrawal from the first Grand Slam of the season on Thursday. The 23-year-old Chinese player has struggled with injuries throughout 2025 and is not yet ready to return.
“I have a special connection to this place,” said the 2024 AO runner-up, “and I was really looking forward to starting my new season at Melbourne Park.”
