Venus Williams has received a wildcard entry for the Mubadala Citi DC Open in Washington. The tournament is scheduled to begin on July 25. The seven-time major champion is currently ranked 459th.
The American player, who turns heads with another wildcard despite ongoing debate over her form, has accepted the invitation for the hard-court event during the North American swing. She participated in the same tournament last year.
Williams has secured eight wildcards this year and has lost all seven of her matches to date. Critics, including former player Yevgeny Kafelnikov, have questioned the decisions, arguing that the spots could benefit younger players instead.
Supporters such as Kim Clijsters, Andy Roddick, and Coco Gauff have backed Williams, citing her legacy and drawing power. Williams has stated that competition motivates her, saying she does not travel “to not be feeling the fire.”
