Tennis legend Venus Williams will make her return to the US Open, competing in the mixed doubles event alongside fellow American Reilly Opelka. The seven-time singles Grand Slam champion received a wild card entry, as announced by the U.S. Tennis Association (USTA).

Williams’ Recent Comeback

Williams, 45, returned to the WTA Tour last week at the D.C. Open, where she defeated Peyton Stearns 6-3, 6-4 in the round of 32, becoming the oldest woman to win a WTA Tour-level match since Martina Navratilova in 2004. Although she lost to Magdalena Frech 6-2, 6-2 in the round of 16, her return has sparked excitement among tennis fans.

Opelka: A Powerful Partner

Opelka, 27, is known for his massive serve and has reached a career-high ranking of No. 17. Despite recent injury struggles, his powerful game could make a strong pairing with Williams in the mixed doubles event.

Changes to Attract Bigger Names

The USTA has made significant changes to the mixed doubles event, including an increased prize pool and adjusted scheduling, to draw bigger names in the sport. The event will take place over two days, August 19 and 20, before the singles tournament begins.

Star-Studded Field

Other notable players confirmed for the mixed doubles event include world No. 1 Jannik Sinner, Carlos Alcaraz (No. 2), American standouts Taylor Fritz and Ben Shelton, and top-ranked woman Iga Swiatek (No. 3).

Williams still has the option to request a wild-card entry for the singles event, which could see her compete in both the singles and doubles competitions at the US Open.