At 45, Venus Williams is heading back to the French Open, but not everyone is happy about it. The seven-time Grand Slam singles champion has entered the women’s doubles draw at Roland Garros alongside fellow American Hailey Baptiste, who is 21 years younger than her. Tournament organizers confirmed the entry this week ahead of the clay-court Grand Slam, which begins on May 24 in Paris. Venus Williams will not play singles at the French Open after failing to receive a wildcard for the main draw. Still, her return in doubles has once again sparked debate across the tennis world because of her recent struggles on court and the number of wildcard entries she has received over the past year.
The former world No. 1 has lost 10 straight matches dating back to last season. Her latest defeat came at the Madrid Open, where Spain’s Kaitlin Quevedo beat her in the Round of 128. Before that, Britain’s Fran Jones knocked her out of the Miami Open in straight sets. Despite the losses, Venus Williams continues to receive invitations into major tournaments because of her legendary career and popularity in the sport.
Venus Williams faces retirement calls after repeated wildcard entries and long losing streak
The criticism around Venus Williams has grown louder in recent months. Many fans and former players believe the wildcard spots should instead go to younger players trying to build their careers on the WTA Tour.
Her last singles victory came in July 2025 at the Washington Open, where she defeated American Peyton Stearns before losing to Poland’s Magdalena Frech in the next round. Since then, she has played nine more singles tournaments through wildcard entries and lost in the opening round every time.
That stretch included Grand Slam defeats against Karolina Muchova at the US Open and Olga Danilovic at this year’s Australian Open.
Former world No. 1 Yevgeny Kafelnikov openly questioned the continued wildcard support for Venus Williams after her Indian Wells loss to France’s Diane Parry. Speaking on the “Hard Court” podcast, Kafelnikov said: “I have incredible respect for Venus Williams’ achievements. Multiple Grand Slam singles champion, world number one, but it’s time. The wildcard into the main draw would be useful for many girls.”
Fans online also shared similar reactions. One user wrote on X: “Venus is only taking a spot away from someone who really needs it to make money and keep playing on the circuit full time.” Another added: “It’s time for Venus Williams to retire proper. Nothing left to prove.”
Even with the criticism, Venus Williams remains one of the biggest names in tennis history. She won 14 Grand Slam doubles titles with her sister Serena Williams and twice lifted the French Open doubles trophy with her. Now, nearly five years after her last Roland Garros appearance, she is preparing for another chapter on one of tennis’ biggest stages.
