Seven-time Grand Slam champion Venus Williams has accepted a wildcard for the Washington Open, marking her first competitive match in 16 months. The 45-year-old tennis legend has not competed since the Miami Open in March 2024 and last won a match at the Cincinnati Open in August 2023. Currently listed as 'inactive' on the WTA website, Williams does not hold a ranking.

"There's something truly special about DC - the energy, the fans, the history," said Williams in a statement. "This city has always shown me so much love and I can't wait to compete there again."

The Washington Open, a WTA 500 event, begins on 21 July 2025. The women's draw features top players including Emma Raducanu, Jessica Pegula, Naomi Osaka, and Amanda Anisimova, who recently faced Iga Swiatek in the Wimbledon women's singles final.

Williams, a five-time Wimbledon champion and two-time US Open champion, has also secured 14 major titles in women's doubles alongside her sister Serena Williams. Her return to the court is highly anticipated by fans and the tennis community alike.

Earlier this year, Williams declined a wildcard for the Indian Wells tournament, citing overseas commitments. Her decision to compete in Washington signifies a strong comeback to the sport she has dominated for decades.