Venus Williams excited about first-ever appearance at Citi Open in Washington

Former World No.1 Venus Williams has added yet another “new” tournament to her list of events as she will play in the Citi Open Washington event for the first time.

The 42-year-old tennis great, who made her professional debut back in 1994, has accepted a wildcard entry into the WTA 250 tournament, which gets underway on August 1.

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The seven-time Grand Slam winner’s last singles appearance on the WTA Tour was at the Chicago Women’s Open last August where she lost in the first round while her last win was at Wimbledon 2021.

However, the American did play mixed doubles alongside Jamie Murray at Wimbledon this year and the pair won their opening match before going down in the second round.

“I am excited to be playing the Citi Open for the first time this summer,” Williams said. “I love Washington, DC, and returning to the nation’s capital to play in front of a community that has supported me so strongly feels like a homecoming.

“I am looking forward to being back on the courts and competing in DC soon.”

This year will mark the 10th edition of the tournament for women and the first since 2019 due to the coronavirus pandemic.

“We are thrilled to welcome Venus to the 2022 Citi Open and Washington, DC, and to give our fans a chance to cheer for one of the greatest athletes of all time in person,” Citi Open Chairman Mark Ein said.

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“Venus is an icon who has transcended sports to become a role model for millions of people around the world and in our community. The opportunity to watch her live at the Citi Open for the first time will be a life-long memory for all of our fans.”

Williams, who has also accepted a wildcard entry for the Canadian Open, will be one five Grand Slam champions in the women’s main draw as Emma Raducanu, Simona Halep, Victoria Azarenka, Sloane Stephens and Sofia Kenin will also feature.