Venus Williams: Defying Age and Creating History at the Australian Open

At 45, Venus Williams is set to become the oldest player to compete in the Australian Open women's singles draw. Returning after a five-year hiatus with a wild-card entry, she reflects on her illustrious career and anticipation for the match against Olga Danilovic. Williams aims for a comeback victory.

Venus Williams is poised to make history at the Australian Open, where the 45-year-old will become the oldest female player in the singles draw. Williams, who only realized the milestone after receiving a wild-card entry, expressed her excitement, saying, "So yay. Yay for me! Let's do this."

Having first played the Australian Open at 17 in 1998, Williams reflects on her early career with nostalgia. She sees sport as a continuous challenge, with attitude and effort being paramount. Despite a first-round exit at her comeback Grand Slam at the 2023 U.S. Open, Williams remains committed to competing.

Williams is set to face 24-year-old Olga Danilovic in the opening round at Melbourne's John Cain Arena. Ranked 576th due to limited tour participation, Williams looks to secure her first win of 2026 and potentially face third-seeded Coco Gauff. Her focus remains on controlling the points and playing her best tennis.

(With inputs from agencies.)