“The duo we didn’t know we needed in 2026,” the ASB Classic wrote on social media while announcing a surprise doubles partnership between Venus Williams and Elina Svitolina.
Ahead of the Australian Open, the 45-year-old Williams will kick off her season at the WTA 250 ASB Classic in Auckland, where she has received a wildcard into the main draw. In singles, the seven-time Grand Slam champion will face fifth seed Magda Linette in the opening round. Adding to the excitement, tournament organizers confirmed that Williams will also compete in doubles, teaming up with Svitolina in a pairing few fans saw coming.
The Williams–Svitolina duo will open their doubles campaign against Alexandra Eala and Iva Jovic, setting up one of the most intriguing first-round matches of the event.
Williams is a former ASB Classic champion, having lifted the singles trophy in Auckland in 2015. This year’s appearance marks her first tournament since the 2025 US Open and her first event outside the United States since 2023.
