Tennis legend Venus Williams has made history after receiving a wildcard entry to the Australian Open at the age of 45, becoming the oldest woman ever to compete in the tournament. The seven time Grand Slam singles champion will feature in the main draw at Melbourne Park for the first time since 2021.
Reacting to the development, Williams expressed excitement about her return to Australia, describing the country as a place filled with memorable moments from her career. She said she was looking forward to competing during the Australian summer and appreciated the opportunity to return to a tournament that holds deep personal significance for her.
Williams previously reached the Australian Open singles final in 2003 and again in 2017. Her illustrious career also includes five Wimbledon titles and two US Open victories.
With this appearance, Williams surpasses Japan’s Kimiko Date, who competed at the Australian Open at age 44 in 2015, setting a new age record in the women’s game.
