Venus Williams Awarded Wild Card For Miami Open Return

Nearly a quarter-century after her last championship celebration in South Florida, Venus Williams is set to make her return to the Miami Open. Tournament officials have granted the veteran icon a wild card into the main draw, which commences today at Hard Rock Stadium.

Williams joins a list of wild card recipients that includes fellow American and former Grand Slam champion Sloane Stephens. For the 45-year-old Williams, the invitation offers another opportunity to compete on a stage where she has historically excelled.

The WTA 1000 event holds a special place in her career; she is a three-time champion, though her most recent victory came in 2001. Her return to Miami this year marks her first appearance since 2024, when she was defeated in the first round by Diana Shnaider.

The wild card provides a potential boost for Williams, who is seeking her first win of the 2026 season. She has yet to progress past the opening round in any of her five tournament appearances this year.