Venus Williams is set to make her return to competitive tennis after a 16-month absence, having accepted a wildcard entry into the upcoming Washington Open. The seven-time Grand Slam singles champion has not played since her appearance at the Miami Open in March 2024. Her last match win came even earlier, at the Cincinnati Open in August 2023.
Now 45, Williams is currently listed as “inactive” on the official WTA site, which means she no longer holds a world ranking. Despite that, she’s preparing for a high-profile comeback at the WTA 500-level event in Washington, which begins on 21 July.
Expressing her excitement about returning to the court, Williams said that Washington holds a special place in her heart. She highlighted the vibrant energy of the city, the support of the fans, and its tennis history as reasons for her return. Williams has played in Washington before and has often spoken fondly of the atmosphere there.
Her participation adds another layer of intrigue to a star-studded women’s field that includes rising and returning talents alike. British star Emma Raducanu, American fan favorite Jessica Pegula, former world number one Naomi Osaka, and Amanda Anisimova—who is set to face current world number one Iga Swiatek in the Wimbledon final—are all scheduled to compete in the tournament.
Williams’s return is sure to attract significant attention. With over three decades of experience on the WTA Tour, she has left an indelible mark on the sport. In singles, she has won Wimbledon five times and the US Open twice. Alongside her sister Serena, she has claimed 14 Grand Slam doubles titles, cementing the Williams duo as one of the most successful pairings in tennis history.
Although she turned down a wildcard offer from Indian Wells earlier this year, citing international travel, her choice to compete in Washington signals a renewed motivation and readiness to compete at the top level again.
Williams’ appearance in Washington won’t just be about nostalgia—it’s a test of how her game holds up after more than a year away from competition. While expectations are likely to be tempered given her long layoff and age, her experience, determination, and enduring presence make her a fascinating addition to the draw.
Whether this marks a brief swansong or the beginning of a sustained comeback, tennis fans will be eager to see one of the sport’s legends back in action. For Williams, it’s another chapter in a remarkable career defined by resilience, power, and longevity.
