Washington, July 12 -- Seven-time Grand Slam singles champion Venus Williams has accepted a wildcard for the Washington Open in what would be her first competitive match in 16 months.

The 45-year-old has not competed since the Miami Open in March 2024 - and last won a match at the Cincinnati Open in August 2023.

The former world number one is currently listed as 'inactive' on the WTA website, meaning she does not have a ranking.

"There's something truly special about DC - the energy, the fans, the history," said Williams in a statement on Friday.

"This city has always shown me so much love and I can't wait to compete there again."

The Washington Open - a WTA 500 event - begins on July 21, and the women's draw includes Britain's Emma R...