Venus Williams returns to add star status to ASB Classic in Auckland

US tennis legend Venus Williams has confirmed she will make her seventh appearance at Auckland's 2026 ASB Classic in the new year.

The American returned to compete in the US Open this year at the age of 45 after a 16-month hiatus from the game and will compete in Auckland in likely preparation for the Australian Open.

Williams has won a remarkable 49 career titles, including the ASB Classic title a decade ago when she edged Caroline Wozniacki in a three-set thriller final, a year after being runner-up to Ana Ivanovic.

The former world No 1 first played in Auckland in 2014 when she was runner-up, with the tournament becoming one of her favourites, playing in five of the next six years before returning in 2023.

A seven-time Grand Slam champion, Williams resumed her tennis career mid-year, and recently reflected on her health struggles.

"Where I am at this year is so much different where I was at last year," said Williams. "It's night and day, being able to prepare for the tournament as opposed to preparing for surgery a year ago," she said of competing at the recent US Open.

ASB Classic tournament director Nicolas Lamperin said what Williams had achieved in her career was extraordinary.

"...She is one of the great players in the modern era and her performances on the court speak for themselves.

"Off the court she has made an equally significant contribution to the game and to the development of female players world-wide. Venus has had a profound influence on the evolution of women's tennis and has inspired the next generation with her unshakeable passion for the sport.

"Venus is back in remarkable shape and form."

He said it would be a privilege to welcome her back to the venue's courts, where Williams has said she has been made to feel welcome.

"All sports fans should take this opportunity to watch one of the sport's all-time greats in action."

Williams has won seven Grand Slam titles - five at Wimbledon and two at the US Open - along with finals at the Australian Open and Roland Garros. She won the Grand Slam Cup in 1998, the Sydney Olympics in 2000 and the Tour Finals in 2008.

She has an equally remarkable record in doubles with a stunning 14 Grand Slam doubles titles, three Olympic doubles gold medals, along with two mixed doubles Grand Slams.

The 2026 ASB Classic takes place in Auckland from January 5 to 17, bringing together world-class players at the Manuka Doctor Arena.