New Delhi, February 21: Legendary American Tennis player and seven-time Grand Slam champion Venus Williams has been granted a wild card entry for this year’s Indian Wells Tournament. The tournament organizers have confirmed her participation.
Taking place from March 1 to March 15 in Southern California, Williams will compete in both singles and doubles categories.
Expressing her excitement about the wild card entry, Williams stated, “It feels great to return to Indian Wells and come back home to California. There’s nothing like playing in front of amazing fans. I have created so many memories here over the years. I am grateful to the organizers for bringing me back.”
The former world number one and four-time Olympic gold medalist has previously enjoyed considerable success at Indian Wells, reaching the semifinals three times. Her last appearance in the tournament was in 2024, where she also received a wild card entry.
At 45 years old, Williams began her 2026 campaign at the Australian Open, where she also received a wild card. Although she was eliminated in the first round, she set the record for being the oldest player to compete in the Australian Open during the Open Era.
Williams won a tough first set, but Serbian player Danilovic made a comeback in the second set. Danilovic maintained control in the deciding set, breaking Williams’ serve at crucial moments to secure the match. Despite the loss, Williams impressed with nine aces and a 71% success rate on first-serve points, although five double faults proved costly.
Last year, she reached the US Open doubles quarter-finals alongside partner Leylah Fernandez.
All eyes will be on Williams as she prepares for the Indian Wells tournament, with tennis fans around the world eagerly anticipating her performance.
