Recently, Venus Williams crashed out of the 2021 Emilia Romagna Open in the opening round against Anna Schmiedlova. It was Williams’ second clay-court tournament appearance after the 2021 Madrid Open.

Even at this year’s Madrid Open, a tournament she has won thrice in the past, Venus lost the opening round in straight sets. With less than two weeks left for the French Open, she has received a wildcard from a clay-court WTA 250 event.

Venus Williams receives wildcard for Strasbourg Open

Internationaux de Strasbourg, held in France, has extended a wildcard to the seven-time Grand Slam champion, Williams. The tennis star has confirmed her participation in the competition, which starts on May 22.

Given the location and conditions, Strasbourg would be an ideal preparatory ground for Williams ahead of the upcoming Roland Garros.

Over her two-decades-long illustrious career, Williams has so far failed to win the French Open title. Her best performance in Paris came in 2002 when she reached the final but lost to her younger sister, Serena Williams.

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Since then, Venus hasn’t gone past the quarterfinal stage at Roland Garros, a grim streak she would want to turn around. With a string of poor performances over the last few months, Venus will aim to improve her form and boost her confidence before heading for the Grand Slam.

Top WTA players in the Strasbourg field

World No.6 Bianca Andreescu will headline the event at Strasbourg, it will also mark her first clay-court tournament participation this year. Hence, for Andreescu, it will be crucial to get a few wins under her belt before the French Open.

American teenager Coco Gauff and 2020 runner-up Elena Rybakina also form part of the strong lineup of players. Notably, four top French players, Fiona Ferro, Caroline Garcia, Kristina Mladenovic, and Alize Cornet will compete for the title at Strasbourg.

Last year, Elina Svitolina claimed the trophy at Strasbourg; however, the defending champion has decided not to compete at the tournament.