Venus Williams Declines Wild Card for BNP Paribas Open

Venus Williams, the 44-year-old tennis champion, will not participate in the upcoming BNP Paribas Open despite being granted a wild-card entry. Tournament director Tommy Haas confirmed her withdrawal, stating that Williams opted out due to prior commitments and learned of her wild-card status when it was publicly announced. During an event in Denmark, Williams clarified that she never planned to compete in the tournament and expressed her disappointment, noting she would be overseas instead. This marks nearly a year since she last competed, with her last matches resulting in first-round losses at the Miami Open and Indian Wells in March 2024. Organizers have extended their best wishes for her future participation at Indian Wells. Fans had hoped to see her play, but the tournament will proceed with other top players vying for the title.