Photo credit: Rob Stone/@RobStoneTennis
Venus Williams is heading back to Tennis Paradise.
Seven-time Grand Slam champion Venus Williams has received a wild card into next month’s BNP Paribas Open at Indian Wells, the tournament announced today.
The 45-year-old tennis icon has received both a singles and doubles wild card entry into the event, where she will make her first appearance since 2024.
“It’s an honor to award the first wild card of this year’s event to Venus Williams,” said Tommy Haas, BNP Paribas Open Tournament Director. “Venus is a legend of the game, and one of the most accomplished players our sport has ever seen.
“We are thrilled to welcome her back to Tennis Paradise and give the fans the chance to see her compete in both singles and doubles.”
Williams made her WTA Tour debut in 1994, and her 30-year career includes 49 Tour-level singles titles, a World No. 1 ranking in both singles and doubles, and a combined 23 Grand Slams across all competitions, including seven in singles. The Compton, California native has also won four Olympic Gold Medals and captured the 2008 WTA Tour Championships.
Venus Williams partnered Leylah Fernandez to reach the US Open doubles quarterfinals last September.
“I’m so excited to be heading back to Indian Wells and can’t wait to return home to play in California,” Venus Williams said in a statement. “This tournament is always such a special experience, and there’s nothing like competing in front of these incredible fans.
“I’ve made so many fun memories here over the years, and I’m grateful to the tournament for having me back and giving me the opportunity to compete in both singles and doubles.”
All Tickets and Packages for the 2026 BNP Paribas Open are now on-sale and can be purchased here.