Venus Williams is set to open her 2026 season in Auckland, the tournament announced this week, as the 45-year-old American continues her return to competitive tennis.

The seven-time Grand Slam champion became the oldest player to win a WTA singles match since 2004 when she returned to action in July after a 16-month layoff. Her comeback drew widespread attention, and she quickly became one of the main attractions at the U.S. Open, where she and Canadian partner Leylah Fernandez reached the women’s doubles quarterfinals.

“The one and only, the game-changer, the all-time great… @Venuseswilliams will RETURN,” tournament organizers posted on X.

The WTA 250 event, considered a key warm-up for the Australian Open, will run from January 5 to January 11, followed by the men’s competition. -Amy Tennery/Reuters