Overview

• Venus Williams confirmed she will not participate in the Indian Wells tournament, despite being offered a wildcard entry for the event.
• The tournament initially announced her participation, but Williams later clarified she had prior commitments overseas and had not accepted the wildcard.
• This would have marked Williams’ first WTA tournament since March 2024, when she last competed at the Miami Open.
• Williams has a storied history with Indian Wells, including a 14-year boycott following accusations of racial abuse during the 2001 tournament.
• The seven-time Grand Slam champion has not officially retired, leaving open the possibility of future appearances on the tennis circuit.