Williams last participated in a Grand Slam tournament at the 2023 U.S. Open, losing in the first round. She hasn’t won a singles match there since 2019.

V enus Williams was already planning to compete at the U.S. Open in mixed doubles with fellow American Reilly Opelka, but now the 45-year-old tennis legend will also play in the women's singles draw. Williams received a wild-card bid from the major tournament on Wednesday.

Williams' entry into the year's final major tournament at age 45 will make her the oldest player on the singles side since 47-year-old Renée Richards took part in the 1981 event. A two-time U.S. Open winner, Williams was already entered into the mixed doubles competition after receiving a wild-card invite.