Venus Williams Handed US Open Wild Card Despite 14 Straight Losses

US Open organizers have awarded a wild card into the women's singles draw to Venus Williams, a two-time champion of the tournament and former world No. 1. The decision comes as something of a surprise: the American's last singles win dates back to July of last year, and just last week she suffered her 14th consecutive defeat in the opening round in Cincinnati.

It was also in Cincinnati that Venus teamed up with her sister Serena in doubles for the first time in four years — the pair entered the doubles draw but were eliminated in the very first round. A joint appearance had originally been planned for Wimbledon, but Serena injured her knee during her singles comeback. Whether she will be fit to play at the US Open remains unclear.

Another Wild Card and Monfils' Farewell Season

A wild card into the main women's draw was also given to Sloane Stephens, the 2017 US Open champion, who is working her way back onto tour following an injury-hit season. Among the men, organizers extended a wild card to France's Gael Monfils, who is set to retire from professional tennis at the end of this season.

The remaining wild cards for the men's and women's singles draws will be announced at a later date. The US Open begins on Sunday, August 30.

Source: sport.cz