Venus Williams earns a wildcard into the US Open as veteran comeback continues
Two-time US Open singles champion Venus Williams has been awarded a wildcard into this year’s tournament, underscoring her ongoing, age-defying return to competitive tennis at 45. Organisers confirmed the invite as Williams works to extend her presence at Flushing Meadows amid a remarkable comeback after a 16-month layoff.
Williams made headlines recently by becoming the oldest player to win a WTA singles match since 2004, beating Peyton Stearns at the Washington Open. Her last appearance in the US Open singles main draw was in 2023, when she was defeated in the first round by Belgian Greet Minnen.
In addition to her singles bid, Williams will be part of the tournament’s new-look mixed doubles event, partnering with fellow American Reilly Opelka. The format marks a fresh chapter for the Open, adding an extra layer of excitement for fans following Williams’s journey back to the spotlight.
The day’s wildcards also include France’s Caroline Garcia, who is widely expected to bow out at Flushing Meadows after a high-profile career arc. Garcia, the 2022 WTA Finals winner, announced plans to retire from the sport earlier this year, adding an extra layer of intrigue to her potential final appearances at the U.S. Open.
This slate of wildcards reflects the tournament’s penchant for mixing veteran experience with rising talent, keeping the event rich in storylines as it approaches its latest chapter at the U.S. Open.
What to watch for: Williams’s precise serving and tenacity, her ability to mix aggression with patience on unfamiliar court conditions, and how the renewed mixed-doubles format influences the overall dynamic of the tournament. Garcia’s participation, given her decision to retire, will also be closely watched as a possible farewell moment for a former top contender.
Summary and outlook: Williams’s wildcard entry highlights the continued allure of veteran comebacks and the evolving landscape of the US Open, where experience and versatility can still carve out compelling stories. The week ahead promises an uplifting narrative for fans and a testament to longevity in tennis. Positive note: Williams’s ongoing presence offers hope and inspiration to players and supporters alike as she competes with renewed energy on one of the sport’s biggest stages.
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