Venus Williams, a celebrated seven-time Grand Slam singles champion, might have to pay £195 to remain active in professional tennis.
Having played sparingly recently, the American tennis star is in danger of losing her professional license.
Williams, aged 44, last participated in a competitive match as a wildcard entrant at the Miami Open on March 18, 2024.
After reportedly declining a wildcard for the Indian Wells tournament, often called the `fifth Grand Slam,` and potentially the ongoing Miami Open, she is approaching a full year without competition.
Despite being reportedly fit and uninjured, Williams has opted out of several opportunities to return to the court, citing prior commitments for her decision to decline the Indian Wells wildcard.
She dedicates a significant portion of her time to her interior design firm, V Starr, in addition to her tennis career.
As a result, Williams faces the possibility of being designated as inactive by the WTA Tour by the end of March.
Currently ranked No. 1151 globally, Williams has not participated in enough tournaments to qualify as a full or associate member of the WTA Tour.
Therefore, to continue her professional career, Williams will need to complete an annual player form and pay the £195 ($250) administration fee.
Since June 2024, Williams is no longer obligated to provide daily whereabouts updates to anti-doping authorities.
Turning professional in 1994, 31 years ago, Williams was diagnosed with Sjogren`s syndrome, an autoimmune condition, in 2011.
Despite her last victory in a tennis match dating back to August 2023, Williams has shown no signs of retiring.
She may seek a wildcard entry into Wimbledon this summer, a tournament where she has already secured five singles titles.
Alongside her sister Serena, Venus has claimed 14 Grand Slam doubles titles and three Olympic gold medals.
