Why Venus Williams Turned Down Indian Wells Wildcard
Former world number one, Venus Williams, has decided not to accept a wildcard for the upcoming Indian Wells tournament, leaving fans wondering about her future in professional tennis.
The 44-year-old, who has won seven Grand Slam singles titles, was offered an invitation by the organisers but chose to decline.
“Our team has been informed that Venus is not accepting the wildcard this year,” the tournament organisers said on social media, quoting tournament director Tommy Haas. “We wish Venus all the best and hope to see her back in Indian Wells in the future.”
No Plans for a Comeback Yet
Williams, currently ranked 974th in the WTA standings, has not played a tour-level match since her early exit at the 2023 Miami Open almost a year ago.
In a recent interview on the Tennis Weekly podcast, Williams confirmed that she would not be playing at Indian Wells, which takes place from March 2 to 16. “I’m not playing – I’m going to be overseas. I’m not going to be here,” she said.
A Complicated History with Indian Wells
Venus Williams’ absence also brings up the history of her 15-year boycott of the tournament following a controversial incident in 2001.
That year, she withdrew from a semi-final match against her sister Serena due to injury, which led to accusations of match-fixing. The next day, during Serena’s final match, the Williams family was reportedly booed and faced racial abuse.
Serena ended the boycott in 2015 when she returned to the tournament, and Venus followed a year later.
