Seven -time Grand Slam singles champion Venus Williams has accepted a wildcard for the Washington Open, which will be their first competitive match in 16 months.

Since the Miami Open in March 2024, the 45-year-old has not competed-and the last won a match at the Cincinnati Open in August 2023.

The former world number one is currently listed as ‘passive’ on the WTA website, meaning that it does not have a ranking.

Williams said in a statement, “DC – is really special about energy, fans, history.”

“This city has always shown me so much love and I can’t wait to compete there again.”