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Venus Williams, 45, Granted Wild Card for 2026 Auckland Classic Ahead of Australian Open

Posted : 05 November 2025

Seven-time Grand Slam champion Venus Williams is set to compete at next year’s Auckland Classic, tournament organisers confirmed on Wednesday. The 45-year-old American has received a wild card entry for the event, which will run from January 5 to 11, serving as a warm-up tournament for the Australian Open.

Williams only made her return to professional tennis in August at the US Open, following a 16-month absence from the tour due to injury. Despite her time away, tournament director Nicolas Lamperin praised her dedication and fitness, describing her as being in “remarkable shape and form.”

Williams, who won the Auckland Classic title in 2015 after defeating Caroline Wozniacki in the final, remains one of the most decorated players in tennis history. Her résumé includes five Wimbledon singles titles, two US Open crowns, and an Olympic gold medal from the Sydney 2000 Games.

Lamperin expressed excitement at welcoming Williams back to Auckland, calling it a “privilege” to have such a legendary athlete participate. “All sports fans should take this opportunity to watch one of the game’s all-time greats in action,” he said.

In addition to Williams, organisers confirmed that Naomi Osaka, Japan’s four-time Grand Slam champion, will also take part in the tournament, adding further star power to the field.

The Australian Open will commence in Melbourne on January 18, where both Williams and Osaka are expected to compete.

 

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