Former world No.1 Venus Williams has had to clarify a mixup with Indian Wells tournament organisers, confirming she is "not playing" despite receiving a wildcard.
The 44-year-old was set to feature in her first pro event since last year’s Miami Open and a 15th straight main draw event entering as a wildcard, spanning back from 2021.
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Williams hosted ‘An Evening with Venus Williams’ at Denmark’s Arena Næstved on Sunday, where she revealed it "wasn’t true" when asked if she would travel to the Californian desert.
"No, I'm not playing," Williams said. "Actually, I found the announcement super amusing because, I don't know, people seem to be happy, so I was like, 'Maybe I'll just go with it, I don't know.' I'm actually not going.
"I'm going to be overseas. I'm not going to be [there] ... I just had a player text me today too, like, 'Can you play doubles?' [But] I'm not playing."
The American has battled injuries in the back end of her decorated career, having failed to win consecutive matches since 2019.
Tournament Director Tommy Haas released a statement to clear the air.
"Our team has been informed that Venus is not accepting the wildcard this year," he said.
"We wish Venus all the best and hope to see her back in Indian Wells in the future.
Indian Wells is the first 1000 event of the season and will commence on March 2.
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