Serena Williams’ Coach Defends Venus Over Guangzhou Wild Card

Serena Williams’ Coach Defends Venus Over Guangzhou Wild Card

Serena Williams’ coach, Rennae Stubbs, has defended Venus Williams after the tennis legend faced criticism for accepting singles and doubles wild cards for the upcoming Guangzhou Open.

Some fans argued that repeated wild cards given to Venus could take opportunities away from younger players, especially following a difficult run of results. Stubbs rejected the criticism, saying tournament organisers, sponsors and Venus herself have the right to decide who receives the invitations.

The debate comes after Venus suffered her 15th consecutive singles defeat at the 2026 US Open, where she lost to Sofia Kenin in the first round. Stubbs maintained that Venus has earned the opportunity to continue playing and said the decision ultimately rests with the tournaments and the player.