Venus Williams Becomes Oldest Woman to Play Australian Open

Venus Williams will return to Melbourne Park for the 2026 season-opening tournament after receiving a wildcard entry as a seven-time Grand Slam champion.At 45 years old, the American tennis star is set to become the oldest woman to ever compete in the main draw, surpassing the record previously held by Kimiko Date.Williams, who currently holds a world ranking of 581st, will prepare for the event by competing at the Auckland Classic in New Zealand earlier in January.