The American will play her first Australian Open in five years and will be the oldest woman ever at the Melbourne tournament after being granted a wildcard. Williams lost in doubles in Auckland on Monday alongside Ukraine's Elina Svitolina. Against the 33-year-old Linette, Williams sent down four aces in the second set to force a decider. But Williams, a former world number one now ranked 582, faded in the third set, Linette breaking her serve twice to move into the second round. Linette lost her two prior matches against Williams but said she was impressed.

Source: Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha January 06, 2026 05:29 UTC