Seven-time Grand Slam champion Venus Williams’ losing streak in 2026 continues, as she was knocked out of the Indian Wells Open in the first round after losing to qualifier Diane Parry in three sets on Thursday. Williams is now 0-5 this season and has participated in all tournaments as a wildcard entrant.
Besides singles, Williams has also failed to win a doubles match this year. Following her latest loss, fans have slammed the 45-year-old for her poor outings, with many suggesting she should retire from professional tennis.
“Time to retire,” commented a fan.
“She should retire. She’s old and worn out. Her time is gone,” commented another fan.
“Bowing out with respect is an option,” yet another fan commented.
Some fans voiced their ire over the WTA’s methods for handing out wildcards. Many opined that wildcards should be given to players who deserve a chance to play at elite events.
“Nobody seems to mind or question how WCs are given, VW gets one, SW not, two kids of age 15 n 16 does, in a M1K! Two locals with UTR 10 and 11 gets WCs in the Doha ATP500. There seems to be no governance in tennis, at all!” one fan commented.
“Predictable as always. 1st round exit. But she still gets wildcards, taking away an opportunity for someone else who needs to earn money to stay in the circuit,” another fan commented.
“Why do tournaments keep giving her wildcards?” yet another fan commented.
Venus Williams Blamed the Conditions for Losses in Austin and Indian Wells
World No. 554 Williams addressed the media after her first-round exit at Indian Wells. The veteran star placed prime focus on the conditions and how they played a massive role in her last two losses on home soil.
“I think today isn’t the kind of day I want to assess. The conditions are impossible. Also, my match in Austin, the conditions were impossible. I have played the last two matches in very difficult conditions,” Williams said.
“In Austin, I refused to relent and change my game, and I lost very quickly. Today, I tried to adjust, but it’s not easy; you can’t trust anything that you do out there,” she added.
It remains to be seen what the next course of action will be for Williams, as she has yet to confirm participation in any WTA event.
Also read:
College Sports Network has you covered with the latest news, analysis, insights, and trending stories in tennis, college football, men’s college basketball, women’s college basketball, and college baseball!
