Tennis Icon Venus Williams Returns to Indian Wells

45-year-old legend granted wild card entry for singles and doubles events after controversial 2-year absence

Apr. 12, 2026 at 3:57pm

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A cubist-style painting depicting a tennis match or competition, with sharp, overlapping geometric shapes in vibrant colors representing the dynamic movements and energy of the sport.Venus Williams' return to Indian Wells marks a new chapter in her storied career, as the tennis legend seeks to overcome past challenges and reclaim her place on the court.Indian Wells Today

Tennis superstar Venus Williams is set to make a highly anticipated return to the BNP Paribas Open at Indian Wells, California, after a two-year hiatus. The 45-year-old former world No. 1 has been granted a wild card entry to compete in both the singles and doubles events, marking a significant chapter in her storied career that includes 7 Grand Slam singles titles, 14 Grand Slam doubles titles, and 4 Olympic gold medals.

Why it matters

Williams' return to Indian Wells is noteworthy given the tournament's complicated history for the Williams sisters. In 2002, Venus and her sister Serena boycotted the event for 14 years following racial remarks from the crowd. Venus' decision to compete again is seen as a sign of healing and resilience, but also raises questions about her current form and ability to compete at the highest level at her age.

The details

The BNP Paribas Open officially announced Venus Williams' wild card entry on Friday, with tournament director Tommy Haas praising her as a 'legend of the game.' Williams, who has struggled with a 0-3 start to the 2026 season, expressed excitement to compete in front of the 'incredible fans' at Indian Wells. She will also team up with rising star Leylah Fernandez in the doubles event, reprising their successful partnership from the 2025 US Open.

  • The BNP Paribas Open at Indian Wells will take place from March 10-23, 2026.
  • Venus Williams last competed at Indian Wells in 2024, before taking a two-year hiatus from the tournament.

The players

Venus Williams

A legendary former world No. 1 tennis player, with 7 Grand Slam singles titles, 14 Grand Slam doubles titles, and 4 Olympic gold medals to her name.

Leylah Fernandez

A rising young tennis star who will partner with Venus Williams in the doubles event at Indian Wells.

Tommy Haas

The tournament director of the BNP Paribas Open at Indian Wells, who praised Venus Williams as a 'legend of the game.'

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What they’re saying

“There's nothing like competing in front of these incredible fans.”

— Venus Williams

“Venus is a legend of the game, and we are thrilled to have her back at the BNP Paribas Open.”

— Tommy Haas, Tournament Director, BNP Paribas Open

What’s next

All eyes will be on Venus Williams as she takes the court at Indian Wells, where she will look to prove that she still has what it takes to compete at the highest level. Her performance in the singles and doubles events will be closely watched, as she aims to add another chapter to her storied career.

The takeaway

Venus Williams' return to Indian Wells is a testament to her enduring legacy and resilience in the face of adversity. Her decision to compete again, after a controversial boycott of the tournament, highlights the complexities of her journey and the ongoing conversation around race and equality in professional sports.