Austin, Texas, February 5, 2026
Venus Williams, the renowned 45-year-old tennis player, has accepted a wild card entry into the ATX Open in Austin, Texas. This marks her debut in the tournament, set to take place at the Westwood Country Club from February 21 to March 1. Earlier achievements include several Grand Slam titles and Olympic medals. Williams, who recently returned to professional tennis, expressed her excitement about participating in this prestigious WTA 250 event, which features top-ranked competitors and aims to elevate women’s tennis in Texas.
Austin, Texas – Venus Williams to Compete in ATX Open
Venus Williams, the 45-year-old tennis icon, has accepted a wild card entry to the ATX Open in Austin, Texas, marking her debut in the tournament scheduled from February 21 to March 1, 2026.
Event Details
- Location: Westwood Country Club, Austin, Texas
- Dates: February 21 – March 1, 2026
- Event Type: WTA 250 Tournament
Williams’ Participation
- Age: 45
- Competition: Singles and Doubles
- Previous Achievements: 21 Grand Slam titles, 4 Olympic gold medals
Recent Career Highlights
- 2025 DC Open: Returned to professional tennis after a year-long hiatus, defeating Peyton Stearns in the first round, becoming the oldest woman to win a WTA Tour-level singles match since 2004.
- 2025 US Open: Reached the quarterfinals in doubles with partner Leylah Fernandez.
- 2026 Australian Open: Participated with a wild card entry; exited in the first round of both singles and doubles events.
ATX Open Field
- Defending Champion: Jessica Pegula (World No. 6)
- Notable Participants: Peyton Stearns, Ajla Tomljanović, Iva Jovic
- Player Field: Approximately 24 players ranked within the Top 100 worldwide
Williams’ Statement
Expressing her enthusiasm, Williams stated, “I’m so excited to be heading to Austin and playing my first ATX Open. The city has such great energy and I’ve heard the fans are incredible.”
Background
The ATX Open is Texas’ only women’s professional tour-level tennis event, attracting elite competitors from around the globe. The tournament has grown significantly since its inception, now featuring a strong player field and drawing substantial fan interest.
Key Features of the ATX Open 2026
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Westwood Country Club, Austin, Texas |
| Dates | February 21 – March 1, 2026 |
| Event Type | WTA 250 Tournament |
| Defending Champion | Jessica Pegula (World No. 6) |
| Notable Participants | Peyton Stearns, Ajla Tomljanović, Iva Jovic, Venus Williams |
| Venus Williams’ Age | 45 |
| Venus Williams’ Achievements | 21 Grand Slam titles, 4 Olympic gold medals |
| Williams’ Statement | “I’m so excited to be heading to Austin and playing my first ATX Open. The city has such great energy and I’ve heard the fans are incredible.” |
FAQ
When is the ATX Open taking place?
The ATX Open is scheduled from February 21 to March 1, 2026, at the Westwood Country Club in Austin, Texas.
Who is participating in the ATX Open?
Notable participants include defending champion Jessica Pegula, Peyton Stearns, Ajla Tomljanović, and Iva Jovic. Venus Williams has also accepted a wild card entry, marking her debut in the tournament.
What are Venus Williams’ recent career highlights?
Williams returned to professional tennis in 2025, achieving a notable victory at the DC Open and reaching the quarterfinals in doubles at the US Open. She also participated in the 2026 Australian Open with a wild card entry.
What is the ATX Open?
The ATX Open is Texas’ only women’s professional tour-level tennis event, held annually at the Westwood Country Club in Austin. It attracts elite competitors from around the world and has grown significantly since its inception.
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Venus Williams to Make ATX Open Debut
Author: STAFF HERE SAN ANTONIO WRITER
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