Venus returns! She’s playing the Mubadala Citi DC Open this July

Venus Williams, one of the most decorated athletes in tennis history with seven Grand Slam singles titles, is set to return to competition at the 2025 Mubadala Citi DC Open. The legendary American has accepted a wildcard entry into the main draw of the American tournament, which is scheduled to run from July 19 to 27 at the William H.G. FitzGerald Tennis Center, located in Rock Creek Park, Washington, DC.

The Mubadala Citi DC Open holds a unique place in the tennis calendar as the only joint ATP and WTA 500-level event in the world. This year’s lineup promises to be especially compelling, boasting nine players ranked inside the global Top 10, six Grand Slam winners, five past DC Open champions, and 17 American participants—including the country’s top nine male players.

“I’m excited to accept a wildcard to the Mubadala Citi DC Open. There’s something truly special about DC: the energy, the fans, the history,” said Venus Willams. “This city has always shown me so much love, and I can’t wait to compete there again!”

“We are so excited that Venus will be playing in the Mubadala Citi DC Open this year,” said Mark Ein, Mubadala Citi DC Open Chairman. “She has inspired people around the world with her accomplishments on the court and her visionary impact off the court. I know how much it means to our DC fans and community to be able to watch her compete in person this summer.”

Williams last competed in March 2024, where she fell in the opening round to Diana Shnaider at the Miami Open. That match was only her second appearance of the season, both of which ended in defeat during the Sunshine Swing. Despite sporadic appearances in recent seasons, she has shown continued commitment to the sport, choosing to train and play on her own terms, and never officially closing the door on her career.

Earlier this year, fans were abuzz when Williams was granted a wildcard to the 2025 BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells. But in a surprising move, she opted not to accept the invitation, casting doubt on when or even if she would return. That question has now been answered with her decision to compete in Washington, reigniting excitement among tennis fans eager to witness her grace the court once more.