A strange turn of events has unfolded regarding tennis icon Venus Williams and her anticipated return to the courts.
On Thursday, the 44-year-old, who has clinched seven Grand Slam singles titles, was awarded a wildcard for next month’s BNP Paribas Open at Indian Wells.
The announcement raised a few eyebrows, especially considering she hasn’t played since her early exit at the Miami Open last March.
This came only days after she faced defeat in her opening match at Indian Wells.
However, on Monday, audio surfaced on social media from a speaking event over the weekend, in which Williams expressed that she has no plans to compete at Indian Wells, often regarded as the fifth major tournament in tennis.
“That wasn’t accurate,” Williams is heard chuckling.
“I found the announcement quite amusing… people seem delighted, so I thought, why not go along with it?”
“I’ll be overseas, so I won’t be here; I’ll be tuning in on TV.”
“I’m not playing… I only found out about the wildcard at the same time you all did.”
Indian Wells later confirmed to tennis journalist Ben Rothenberg that Williams had indeed declined the wildcard offer.
“Our team has received word that Venus will not be accepting the wildcard this year,” stated Tommy Haas.
“We wish Venus all the very best and look forward to seeing her back at Indian Wells in the future.”
Williams first graced Indian Wells back in 1994.
She has notably claimed five singles titles at Wimbledon and two at the US Open, in addition to her 14 Grand Slam doubles titles alongside her sister, Serena.
Venus Williams. Getty
Other recipients of wildcards announced recently include two-time Wimbledon champion Petra Kvitova, who is making her return after a 15-month maternity leave, alongside rising stars João Fonseca and Learner Tien.
Fonseca, aged 18, recently claimed his first ATP title at the Argentina Open, while 19-year-old Tien made headlines by reaching the fourth round of the Australian Open back in January.
The BNP Paribas Open is scheduled to take place from March 2-16.
– with AP
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