US Open: Veteran star Venus Williams receives wildcard to compete at 45

Tennis legend Venus Williams has been awarded a wildcard entry into the 2025 US Open, tournament officials confirmed on Wednesday.

At 45 years old, the seven-time Grand Slam champion continues her inspiring return to professional tennis.

Williams recently made headlines at the Washington Open, where she defeated Peyton Stearns to secure her first win in over a year. The victory also made her the oldest player to win a WTA singles match since 2004. It marked a significant milestone in her comeback after a 16-month absence from the sport due to injury and recovery.

She last appeared in the US Open singles main draw in 2023, where she was defeated in the opening round by Belgian player Greet Minnen. This year, she will return not only to compete in singles but also in the newly revamped mixed doubles event. There, she will team up with fellow American Reilly Opelka.

Joining her in the women’s singles wildcard list is France’s Caroline Garcia. The former world No. 4 is expected to make her final appearance at Flushing Meadows before retiring from professional tennis later this year.

Venus Williams’ return brings added excitement and a sense of history to the US Open, as fans eagerly await to see the tennis icon back in action on one of the sport’s biggest stages.