Venus Williams Granted Wild Card for 2026 BNP Paribas Open
Venus Williams, a true titan of tennis with an illustrious career spanning decades, has been awarded a wild card entry into the 2026 BNP Paribas Open. This prestigious opportunity allows the seven-time Grand Slam singles champion to compete in both singles and doubles at the event, marking her return to Indian Wells for the first time since 2024.
Tommy Haas, the Tournament Director, couldn't be more thrilled. "Venus is a legend," he remarked.
"Her impact on the sport is immeasurable, and we're excited to welcome her back to Tennis Paradise. Fans are in for a treat as she graces both the singles and doubles courts."
Williams' career is nothing short of extraordinary. Since her WTA Tour debut in 1994, she has amassed 49 singles titles and has been crowned World No. 1 in both singles and doubles. Her trophy cabinet boasts 23 Grand Slam titles across all categories and four Olympic Gold Medals, not to mention her triumph at the 2008 WTA Tour Championships.
Expressing her excitement, Williams shared, "Returning to Indian Wells feels like coming home. The atmosphere here is electric, and the fans are incredible. I've cherished many memories on these courts, and I'm grateful for the chance to compete again in both singles and doubles."
This will be Williams' tenth appearance at the BNP Paribas Open, where she has previously reached the semifinals in 1998, 2001, and 2018. Her most recent outing at Indian Wells was in 2024, also as a wild card entrant.
Recently, Williams participated in the singles draws of the 2025 US Open and the 2026 Australian Open. She also teamed up with Leylah Fernandez at the US Open, where they made a strong run to the quarterfinals in doubles. Up next, Williams is set to compete at the ATX Open in Austin, Texas, a WTA 250 event running from February 21 to March 1.
For fans eager to catch the action, tickets and packages for the 2026 BNP Paribas Open are available now. Matches will be streamed live via Tennis Channel in the United States, with a comprehensive list of international broadcasters also available.