Venus Williams has accepted a wild-card invitation to play singles at the upcoming DC Open, her first tournament in over a year. The seven-time Grand Slam champion, who turned 45 in June, will compete from July 21-27 live on Sky Sports Tennis.
Williams’ last official match was at the Miami Open in March 2024, where she lost in the first round as a wildcard. In February, she was announced as a wild-card entry for the BNP Paribas Open at Indian Wells but later withdrew.
The DC Open is a significant event on the WTA and ATP Tour calendar, showcasing both tours’ top players. Williams expressed her excitement to return to competition in Washington D.C., citing the city’s energy and fans as key reasons for her participation.
“I know how much it means to our DC fans and community to be able to watch her compete in person this summer,” said Mark Ein, chairman of the DC Open.
This will be Williams’ first tournament since Wimbledon in 2023, where she exited after suffering a right knee injury during the first set.
Venus Williams is the older sister of 23-time Grand Slam winner Serena and has won seven Grand Slam titles between 2000 and 2008, including five at Wimbledon.
Source: https://www.skysports.com/tennis/news/12110/13395529/venus-williams-tennis-legend-accepts-wild-card-to-make-playing-return-at-dc-open-after-16-month-absence