Venus Williams granted US Open wildcard at 46 years old

Venus Williams, the 46-year-old American tennis icon, has been awarded a wildcard for the US Open singles competition, the United States Tennis Association announced. The decision allows Williams to participate in the prestigious Grand Slam event without needing to qualify through the ranking system or qualifying rounds.

Williams, who has won 30 Grand Slam titles across singles and doubles competitions, continues to maintain an active presence in professional tennis. Her career has spanned more than two decades, during which she revolutionised women's tennis alongside her sister Serena and achieved numerous milestones in the sport.

The wildcard selection underscores Williams' enduring status in tennis and her ability to compete at the highest levels of the game. At 46, she remains one of the oldest active competitors on the professional circuit, demonstrating remarkable longevity in a sport typically dominated by younger athletes.

The US Open will provide Williams with another opportunity to showcase her skills on one of tennis' biggest stages. Her participation adds veteran experience and a celebrated narrative to the year's final major tournament, which takes place annually in New York.