Venus Williams set for French Open return after five-year absence, to compete in doubles

At 45, Venus Williams continues to rewrite the rules of longevity in tennis.

The seven-time Grand Slam singles champion is all set to return to the French Open after a five-year gap, teaming up with fellow American Hailey Baptiste in the women’s doubles draw at Roland Garros.

Williams last featured at the clay-court major in 2021, when she partnered Coco Gauff in doubles. Since then, recurring injuries and limited appearances had sparked speculation over whether the former World No. 1 would retire from the sport.

Instead, the American veteran has chosen to continue competing at the highest level. In 2026, she has already appeared at tournaments in Auckland, Hobart, the Australian Open, Indian Wells and Madrid, underlining her determination to stay active on tour.

Although clay was never her strongest surface, Williams has enjoyed memorable success at Roland Garros. She reached the singles final in 2002 and lifted two women’s doubles titles in Paris alongside sister Serena Williams. Her overall resume includes seven Grand Slam singles titles, 14 women’s doubles majors and four Olympic gold medals.

Venus still competing at the top level

Despite struggling for consistency in singles, Williams has continued to showcase the resilience and athleticism that defined her legendary career. Earlier this year, she became the oldest woman to compete in the Australian Open main draw at age 45. She also returned to clay in Madrid for the first time since her 2021 French Open appearance.

Her partnership with Baptiste adds further intrigue heading into the tournament. The pair previously played together at the 2025 Washington Open and enjoyed success in doubles competition.

Baptiste, meanwhile, is enjoying the best season of her career. The 24-year-old reached the semifinals in Madrid and stunned World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka after saving six match points in one of the season’s biggest upsets. She has also broken into the WTA Top 25 for the first time.