Venus Williams is set to make history at the Australian Open after being awarded a wildcard entry into the women’s main draw, becoming the oldest female player ever to compete at the tournament at the age of 45.

The seven-time Grand Slam champion received the final women’s wildcard for the Australian Open, which begins on 18 January, marking another remarkable milestone in a career defined by longevity, resilience and repeated reinvention. Williams’ return to Melbourne Park adds significant star power and experience to the season’s first Grand Slam.

Williams last competed at the Australian Open in 2021, where she reached the second round before being beaten by Italy’s Sara Errani. Speaking after the wildcard announcement, the American expressed her appreciation for the opportunity to return to a venue that has played an important role in her career.

“I’m grateful for the opportunity to return to a place that has meant so much to my career,” Williams said, highlighting her enduring connection to the tournament and her continued passion for competing at the highest level.

By taking her place in the main draw, Williams will surpass the previous age record held by Japan’s Kimiko Date, who was 44 when she competed at the Australian Open in 2015. The achievement further underlines Williams’ status as one of the sport’s most enduring and influential figures.

In addition to the Australian Open, Williams has also accepted a wildcard for the Hobart International, a warm-up event starting on 12 January. The tournament will also feature Britain’s Emma Raducanu, setting up an intriguing mix of experience and emerging talent ahead of the Melbourne Grand Slam.

Williams has continued to demonstrate her competitive spirit in recent seasons. She returned to the US Open in New York last year, becoming the third-oldest woman to compete at the tournament in the Open era. Although she was defeated in the first round by Czech player Karolina Muchova, the match once again showcased her determination to compete against the world’s best.

Divorce is never easy, but when children are involved, the process becomes even more complex and emotional. As parents navigate separation, ensuring the well-being and stability of their children should remain the top priority. This is where an experienced family lawyer in Houston plays a crucial role in safeguarding children’s rights, emotional health, and future.

How Divorce Affects Children

Divorce can be a stressful and confusing time for children. They may experience:

• Anxiety and uncertainty about the future
• Emotional distress from witnessing parental conflicts
• Disruptions in daily routines and school performance
• Fear of losing a relationship with one or both parents

While it is impossible to eliminate all the challenges of divorce, parents can take proactive steps to minimize the negative impact on their children.

How a Family Lawyer Helps Protect Children During Divorce

1. Establishing a Child-Centered Custody Arrangement

One of the most critical aspects of a divorce involving children is determining child custody (conservatorship in Texas). A family lawyer ensures that custody decisions prioritize the child’s best interests, considering factors such as:

• The child’s relationship with each parent
• Each parent’s ability to provide a stable home environment
• The child’s physical and emotional needs
• Any history of domestic violence or substance abuse

In Texas, courts prefer arrangements that allow both parents to remain involved in the child’s life. A family lawyer helps parents negotiate fair custody terms that support the child’s well-being.

2. Securing Fair Child Support

Child support ensures that children continue to receive financial stability after divorce. A family lawyer helps:

• Calculate fair child support based on Texas guidelines
• Ensure that all child-related expenses are considered, including healthcare, education, and extracurricular activities
• Modify child support orders if financial circumstances change

By working with a lawyer, parents can ensure that their child receives the necessary financial support for a stable future.

3. Protecting Children from Parental Conflict

Divorce can become contentious, and high-conflict situations can have a lasting emotional impact on children. A family lawyer acts as a mediator, helping parents:

• Communicate effectively to co-parent peacefully
• Resolve disputes without exposing children to legal battles
• Develop parenting plans that set clear guidelines and expectations

This legal guidance helps reduce stress for both parents and children, ensuring a more positive post-divorce family dynamic.

4. Addressing Relocation and Visitation Issues

If one parent plans to move out of Houston or Texas, this can complicate custody and visitation arrangements. A family lawyer assists in:

• Negotiating long-distance custody plans
• Seeking court approval for relocation requests
• Ensuring visitation schedules are fair and practical

The goal is to maintain a strong parent-child relationship despite any geographic changes.

5. Handling Cases of Parental Alienation or Abuse

In some divorce cases, one parent may attempt to manipulate the child against the other parent (parental alienation) or create an unsafe environment. A family lawyer helps protect children by:

• Presenting evidence of alienation or neglect to the court
• Requesting supervised visitation if necessary
• Seeking modifications to custody orders to ensure the child’s safety

If a child’s well-being is at risk, the court may adjust custody arrangements to provide a safer, more stable living situation.

Choosing the Right Family Lawyer in Houston

A knowledgeable and compassionate family lawyer is essential in protecting children during a divorce. The right attorney will:

• Prioritize the child’s best interests in every legal decision
• Help parents navigate complex custody and support laws
• Advocate for fair agreements that minimize emotional distress for children

Need Legal Help for Your Divorce?

If you’re going through a divorce and want to ensure your children’s well-being, Mokolo Law Firm is here to guide you every step of the way. Contact us today for expert legal support in protecting your child’s rights during and after divorce.

Lyon head coach Paulo Fonseca is set to navigate new challenges as he faces a nine-month touchline suspension following an incident during his team’s 2-1 victory over Brest in early March. Despite the setback, Fonseca remains committed to guiding Lyon from behind the scenes as they continue their strong push in Ligue 1 and European competition.

The decision, announced by the Ligue 1 disciplinary committee, restricts Fonseca from the touchline, dressing rooms, and official match-related activities until November 30, 2025. While the suspension poses hurdles, it presents an opportunity for the Lyon boss to refine his strategic influence and empower his coaching staff to take on greater responsibilities.

Fonseca, who took over at Lyon in January, has already demonstrated resilience throughout his managerial career. His leadership will be crucial as Lyon, currently sixth in Ligue 1, pushes forward in both domestic and international competitions, including their upcoming Europa League clash against FCSB.

With a talented squad and a clear vision, Lyon remains focused on its goals, and Fonseca’s expertise will continue to shape the club’s progress, even from a different vantage point.