When it seemed that his story was already written, Venus Williams He broke any logic again. To the 45 yearsthe legend of women’s tennis announced that she will play at the start of the season 2026a decision that revives her figure and places her back on the radar of major tournaments.
The American chose a special setting for her return: the WTA de Aucklandwhich will be disputed January 5 to 11 in New Zealand. From there, his presence could serve as a platform to dream of an invitation to the Australian Openat least in the doubles modality.
Auckland, the starting point of a new challenge
The New Zealand tournament organization celebrated the announcement with enthusiasm and made it public on social networks with a strong message: “We are very excited to have Venus Williams back on Center Court in Auckland”. It is not just another competition for her, since she won it in 2015 and was a finalist in 2013.
This edition will also feature important names such as Naomi Osakathe young promise Iva Jovic and the local Lulu Sunwhich further raises the appeal of Venus’ return to the circuit.
A record that continues to grow
With this confirmation, Venus Williams will dispute his season number 33 consecutive as a professional, a shocking fact if you take into account that he debuted in 1994. Since then, he always competed in at least two tournaments a year, without interruptions.
Currently located in the 570th position in the WTA rankingremains the oldest player in the world rankings, with a five-year lead over names like Naoko Eto y Bethanie Mattek-Sands.
A personal present that accompanies the sporting illusion
The sports announcement comes at a special moment in his life. Venus will face the new season after having recently married the Italian actor and former model Andrea Pretiof 37 years.
The couple met during Milan Fashion Week 2024 and celebrated their wedding in Palm Beach, Floridawith a celebration that lasted for five days. According to what the tennis player herself told Voguethere were everything from yacht rides to unusual sports competitions, such as pickleball and obstacle courses.
