Venus Williams will make her first appearance at the Australian Open in five years on Sunday.
The American legend last featured at Melbourne Park back in 2021, when she was knocked out in the second round by Sara Errani.
Williams has competed at four tour-level events since July, having played at the Washington Open, the Cincinnati Open, the US Open, and this year’s ASB Classic in Auckland.
How far will Venus Williams go at the Australian Open?
Her campaign in New Zealand to start the season came to an abrupt end, with the 45-year-old losing in her opening match to fifth seed Magda Linette.
Now, ahead of the Australian Open, Williams said she has been training a lot for the first Grand Slam of 2026.
Venus Williams speaks ahead of her Australian Open campaign
Speaking in her pre-tournament press conference about her schedule since bowing out of last year’s US Open, Williams said: “I was training nonstop those three months.
“There were periods where I was super busy so I’d have to take a week off here or three days off there, but for the most part I was training and trying to get myself back in the groove.
“At this point, I need to be kind to myself, because I’m getting so many things right, but, you know, there had been a lack of playing matches.
“So, you know, I’m playing well. I’m setting myself up each point to win points and controlling the points.
“That’s exactly how I’d want to play, and I’m playing the tennis I need to play.”
As well as singles, Williams will be competing in doubles alongside Ekaterina Alexandrova.
Venus Williams praises her first opponent at the Australian Open
In her first-round matchup, Williams will take on Olga Danilovic of Serbia, whom she has never faced before on the WTA Tour.
When asked about Danilovic, the seven-time major champion had incredibly high praise.
“Super talented,” said Williams. “Love seeing young women do positive things. I’m sure we’ll have a great match (smiling).”
The winner between Williams and Danilovic will take on either Kamilla Rakhimova or third seed Coco Gauff.
How far do you think Coco Gauff will go with this draw?
Williams last faced Gauff at the Australian Open back in 2020, where the young star came out on top in straight sets.
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