Venus Williams row erupts again at Miami Open as former world No.1 say | Tennis | Sport

Former world No.1 Yevgeny Kafelnikov has called for Venus Williams to stop getting wildcards after losing in the first round at Indian Wells.

Williams, the current world No.145, has endured a horror recent run, falling to defeat in each of her last EIGHT matches. Indeed, the 45-year-old last won a game back in July 2025, when she beat Peyton Stearns in the Washington Open Round of 32.

The veteran has been handed wildcards to compete in events, but Kafelnikov, who was the highest ranked men’s player in the world back in 1999, has vowed for her to stop receiving invitations to make way for new talents in the sport.

During the latest episode of ‘Hard Court’‘, recorded after Williams’ defeat at Indian Wells, Kafelnikov said: “Have you read Dmitry Tursunov’s telegram?

“After another Venus Williams defeat, he said, I have incredible respect for Venus Williams’ achievements. Multiple Grand Slam singles champion, world number one, but it’s time.

“The wildcard into the main draw would be useful for many girls. The same way Maria Sharapova received one in her time. This wildcard could have been used more productively, and I, in principle, completely agree with him.”

Williams is back in action when she goes up against Francesca Jones in the Miami Open Round of 128 on Wednesday.

The last time Williams won a WTA singles tournament was at the Kaohsiung Open in Taiwan in February 2016.

Speaking about her form and the losing run before the Australian Open in January, Williams said: “I’m hitting the ball really well. I can’t expect perfection right now, but I know I’m playing good tennis.

“Winning and losing doesn’t know any age. Once you walk on court, you’re there to compete. It’s a beautiful sport. I love what I do, and it’s a blessing and an honour to still be playing.”

Williams battled hard at the Melbourne tournament but she was beaten 6-7, 6-3, 6-4 against Olga Danilovic and excited the competition at the first round having failed to compete in the previous four.

While Williams is due to compete in Miami, someone that won’t be involved is Emma Raducanu, after the British No.1 pulled out to focus on recovering from illness. She became unwell while competing in the Middle East last month, and is still suffering with post-viral symptoms.