Venus Williams has been handed a wildcard for the US Open, while sister Serena could still join her in the singles draw.

The 46-year-old, a two-time champion in New York, has been given direct entry into the season’s final Grand Slam.

Serena returned to tennis earlier this summer at Wimbledon after four years away and could yet receive the last remaining wildcard.

The sisters were beaten in doubles at the Cincinnati Open yesterday.