Tennis fans were thrilled last week when news broke that Venus Williams had received a wildcard for the 2025 BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells. However, in an unexpected twist, the 44-year-old legend has now declined the invitation, leaving her competitive future uncertain.
Although Williams remains an officially active WTA player, she hasn’t competed since last year’s Sunshine Swing. The initial announcement of her return was met with great excitement, but it turns out the seven-time Grand Slam champion is not yet ready to rejoin the tour.