Venus says wrist OK, expects to be back for Australian Open

MADRID, Spain -- Five-time Grand Slam champion Venus Williams hopes to return from injury in time for the Australian Open.

"The wrist is OK, and even if it wasn't or is (100 percent), the year is over and it's all about training for next year," said Williams on Saturday. "I think January and Melbourne is a good date (to return)."

Williams is penciled in to compete at the mixed team's doubles Hopman Cup in Perth, Australia, running from Dec. 30 to Jan. 7.

"I can't wait to get back on tour. I really miss my job," Williams said. "It's my aspiration to be out there hitting balls really, really hard and playing those tough points I really enjoy."

Williams has played only once since a third round loss at Wimbledon due to a left wrist injury and was reluctant to return unless feeling capable of matching previous form.

Venus Williams has played only once since a third-round loss at Wimbledon due to a left wrist injury. (AP)

"I can't just be there -- I have to win," she said. "I feel like even on my worst day it's going to be really tough to beat me still. So I think if I can have some good days -- and I think I will -- things could be very promising for me."

On Saturday, Williams was introduced as the face of a new partnership between the WTA Tour and UNESCO to promote women's equality in sport.

"I thought this would be a great idea to get involved and support other women who are also making a difference in fighting for equality," she said.

Williams spoke to WTA Tour chief executive Larry Scott about the tour doing more to promote women's rights across the globe after seeing Afghan women soccer players receive the Arthur Ashe Courage Award at this year's ESPY Awards.

"I knew (the tour) could make a difference but I had no idea I'd be here four months later with UNESCO behind us," Williams said.

Williams is enjoying Madrid.

"I love it here. I don't want to go back to Florida," she said. "I could live here, so hopefully I'll be back next year by qualifying for next year's WTA Championships."