Tennis Legend Set to Make Historic Return as Oldest Woman in Melbourne Main Draw.

Venus Williams Australian Open 2026

Venus Williams, the American tennis icon and seven-time Grand Slam singles champion, has been handed a wildcard into the 2026 Australian Open at the age of 45 — a move that will see her become the oldest woman ever to compete in the Grand Slam’s main draw.

Tournament organizers confirmed that Williams will compete at Melbourne Park from January 18 to February 1, marking her first main draw appearance at the Australian Open since 2021.

This opportunity sets a historic milestone in tennis, as the 45-year-old surpasses the previous oldest female competitor, Japan’s Kimiko Date, who played at 44 in 2015.

Williams, a five-time Wimbledon champion and two-time Australian Open finalist (2003 and 2017), expressed her excitement about returning to Australia and competing during the summer season — a place that holds many career-defining memories for her.

In preparation for the Australian Open, she’s also expected to compete in lead-up events such as the Auckland Classic and the Hobart International, keeping momentum as the season begins.

Her wildcard entry not only celebrates her remarkable longevity and influence in tennis but also adds a compelling narrative to the 2026 season’s opening Grand Slam.