Venus Williams Becomes Oldest Australian Open Singles Competitor, Exits in First Round

Venus Williams, at 45, became the oldest woman to compete in the Australian Open singles main draw after receiving a wildcard for the 2026 tournament. She lost in the first round to 24-year-old Olga Danilovic in a three-set match, despite leading 4-0 in the final set. Williams, a seven-time Grand Slam champion, expressed pride in her performance and acknowledged ongoing efforts to improve after returning from a 16-month break.