The Legendary Williams, Awarded Special Entry for Her Initial Melbourne Major in Half a Decade.
Seven-time Grand Slam singles champion Venus Williams has secured a special invitation for the Australian Open, which kicks off on January 18 in Melbourne.
Historic Comeback to Melbourne Park
Tournament officials confirmed on Friday that the 45-year-old legend will make a return at Melbourne Park a staggering 28 years after her first appearance. During 1998, she defeated her younger sister Serena in the early stage before exiting in the last eight to compatriot Lindsay Davenport.
Preparing for the Australian Summer
Venus had earlier stated in the month of November her intention to play in New Zealand's Auckland Classic, where she also received a wild card, a fortnight before the Australian Open. The Australian Open noted that Williams is also entered to play a tournament in Australia's Hobart International a following week, immediately prior to the start of play at Melbourne Park.
Her most recent visit in Melbourne was in 2021, and she has been a finalist in the singles competition on two separate instances, losing to Serena in the finals of 2003 and 2017.
"I am thrilled to be back in the country and looking forward to playing during the Australian summer," Venus stated. "I’ve had so many incredible memories there, and I’m thankful for the opportunity to go back to a place that has meant so much to my career."
By the Numbers
Williams' career statistics at the Australian Open stands at an notable 54 wins and 21 defeats. This year will represent the 22nd time she has appeared in the main draw.
Setting a New Record
The tournament pointed out that Williams is poised to be the oldest woman to take part in an Open's singles competition, eclipsing the mark formerly set by Japanese Kimiko Date, who was forty-four when she lost in the opening round at the venue in 2015.
Recent Personal Milestone
In late December, Williams wed Danish-born model and actor Andrea Preti in Florida's Palm Beach.
