Venus Williams Declines Indian Wells Wild Card Amid Prior Commitments

The 44-year-old tennis legend confirmed she will not compete in the BNP Paribas Open, citing scheduling conflicts despite earlier tournament announcements.

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.