Venus Williams accepts invitation and returns to Indian Wells in 2026.

Venus Williams, one of tennis’ legends, is back! The iconic champion has accepted a special invitation to compete in the 2026 BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells, where she will participate in both singles and doubles categories. Tournament director Tommy Haas expressed his satisfaction in granting the first wild card of the year to the American, calling it an “honor.” This will be Williams’ first return to the California desert since 2024, a venue where she has built a long and successful career.

“I am so excited to be back in Indian Wells and can’t wait to return home and play in California,” said the 45-year-old Williams. “I am grateful to the tournament for having me back and for giving me the opportunity to compete in both singles and doubles.” The player’s excitement is palpable, and fans are thrilled by the news of her return.

This year, the veteran made history by participating in the Australian Open, becoming the oldest woman to compete in the event. In the first round, she faced 24-year-old Olga Danilovic in an intense match that stretched over three sets before Williams was eliminated. After a 16-month break, she returned to action last July at the DC Open and has been carefully managing her schedule, competing selectively.

It is worth noting that Williams had previously received an invitation for Indian Wells in 2025 but was unable to participate due to personal commitments. Now, the organizers have ensured her presence, allowing fans to witness the return of one of the sport’s most iconic figures in both categories.

Venus Williams’ career is a true testament to longevity and achievement. Since her debut on the WTA Tour in 1994, she has amassed an impressive 49 singles titles and 23 Grand Slam trophies, including seven singles titles. Additionally, Williams has won four Olympic gold medals and the 2008 WTA Championship, placing her among the most decorated players in tennis history.

Her story at Indian Wells is particularly noteworthy. Williams first participated in 1998 and reached the semifinals on three occasions (1998, 2001, 2018). After a long boycott, she returned in 2016 and competed in the following years, except for 2020, when the event was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Her last match at the event took place in 2024.

Tommy Haas emphasized the significance of Venus’s return: “It is an honor to grant the first wild card of this year’s event to Venus Williams. She is a legend of the game and one of the most accomplished players our sport has ever seen. We are excited to welcome her back to Tennis Paradise and give fans the opportunity to see her compete in singles and doubles.”

At 45 years old, Williams will be the oldest player in the modern era to compete in singles at Indian Wells. To prepare for this much-anticipated return, the tennis player is scheduled to participate in the ATX Open, a WTA 250 event in Austin, Texas, before Indian Wells. She also partnered with Canadian Leylah Fernandez in the doubles tournament at the US Open, where they reached the quarterfinals, proving that she is still capable of competing at the highest level.

Reflecting on the tournament, Williams commented: “This event is always such a special experience, and there is nothing like competing in front of these amazing fans. I’ve made so many fun memories here over the years and I’m grateful to the tournament for having me back.” Williams’ schedule for 2026 emphasizes selective participation, allowing her to maximize performance and compete at a high level, despite being one of the oldest players on the tour.

Fans and analysts are keeping a close eye on her matches in Indian Wells, recognizing her return as a sporting milestone and a celebration of an extraordinary career. With each game, Venus Williams continues to inspire new generations and further solidify her legacy in the world of tennis.