Tennis legend Venus Williams is poised to make sporting history, becoming the oldest woman ever to compete in a major tournament after accepting a wildcard for the upcoming Australian Open.
A Historic 22nd Appearance Down Under
This month's event will mark an incredible 22nd main draw appearance in Melbourne for the American champion. Williams, now 45 years old, first graced the Australian Open courts as a 17-year-old in 1998, where she impressively reached the quarter-finals.
Her storied career at Melbourne Park includes two final appearances, both of which she lost to her sister, the 23-time major champion Serena Williams. Their last final clash there was in 2017.
Defying Time with Undiminished Passion
Despite competing in fewer tournaments as she moves through her 40s, Williams' competitive fire burns as brightly as ever. She last played in Melbourne in 2021 and continues to demonstrate her prowess on the court.
In a recent statement, Williams expressed her enthusiasm: "I'm excited to be back in Australia and looking forward to competing during the Australian summer. 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."
Her enduring hunger for the game is clear. Just weeks before the US Open in 2025, she became the oldest woman to win a WTA main draw match by defeating Peyton Stearns in Washington. At that US Open, she pushed 11th seed Karolína Muchová hard, taking a set before bowing out in the first round.
Breaking Records and Setting New Benchmarks
Williams' participation shatters the previous age record held by Japan's Kimiko Date Krumm, who was 44 when she lost in the first round in Melbourne in 2015.
The seven-time Grand Slam champion boasts a formidable 54 wins and 21 losses at the Australian Open. Having been a professional since the age of 14, her longevity and sustained excellence at the highest level remain a testament to her dedication and skill.
As she prepares for another campaign, the sporting world watches in anticipation, ready to witness another chapter in the remarkable career of Venus Williams.
