🔗 Share this article

A seven-time Grand Slam singles champion Venus Williams has secured a special invitation for the first Grand Slam of the year, which kicks off on January 18 in Melbourne.

A Landmark Comeback to the Australian Courts

Tournament officials confirmed on Friday that the 45-year-old icon will make a return at Melbourne Park a staggering 28 years after her debut. During 1998, she defeated her sibling Serena in the early stage before bowing out in the quarter-finals to fellow American Lindsay Davenport.

Gearing Up for the Australian Summer

Venus had previously revealed in November her intention to compete in Auckland, New Zealand, where she also received a wild card, two weeks before the Australian Open. Organizers noted that Williams is scheduled to play a tournament in Australia's Hobart International a following week, immediately prior to the start of play at the main venue.

Her last appearance in the city was in the year 2021, and she has been a finalist in the singles competition on two separate instances, losing to Serena in the championship matches of 2003 as well as 2017.

"I’m excited to return in the country and looking forward to playing during the Australian summer," Williams stated. "I have experienced so many unforgettable memories there, and I’m thankful for the opportunity to go back to a venue 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. The upcoming edition will mark the 22nd time she has appeared in the primary tournament field.

Establishing a New Record

The tournament pointed out that Williams is set to become the most senior female player to take part in an Australian Open main draw, surpassing the record formerly set by Japanese Kimiko Date, who was forty-four when she was defeated in the opening round at the venue in 2015.

Recent Life Event

In late December, Williams married Denmark-born actor and model Andrea Preti in Florida's Palm Beach.