• Venus Williams receives a wildcard entry into the 2025 US Open.
• She will become the oldest singles player at the tournament in over 40 years.
• This marks Williams' 25th appearance at the US Open.
• She recently returned to the sport after a 16-month break.
• Williams aims to compete in both singles and mixed doubles alongside Reilly Opelka.

Venus Williams has been granted a wildcard entry into the 2025 US Open, marking her return to a major tournament at age 45. This will make her the oldest player in singles at the US Open since Renée Richards competed at 47 in 1981, and it will be her 25th appearance at the event where she won her two Grand Slam titles in 2000 and 2001, according to Reuters and BBC.

In her recent return to competitive tennis, Williams defeated Peyton Stearns at the Washington Open, making her the oldest player to win a WTA singles match in over 21 years. Despite losing in the second round, her performance was enough to earn a spot in the main draw of the US Open, as she looks to continue her storied career, according to Dawn and NPR.

Williams is also set to play in the tournament’s mixed doubles alongside fellow American Reilly Opelka. Her determination to compete has been fueled by her love for the game, and she aims to make this US Open a significant chapter in her career, potentially echoing a farewell similar to her sister Serena Williams's celebrated send-off in 2022, according to Reuters and BBC.

The anticipation surrounding Williams's participation raises discussions about her wildcard entry, as some question whether it detracts from younger players' opportunities. Nonetheless, many argue that her legacy as a seven-time Grand Slam champion justifies her entry, according to Dawn and NPR.