The Legendary Williams, Awarded Special Entry for First Australian Open in Five Years.
A seven-time Grand Slam title holder Venus Williams has been granted a special invitation for the first Grand Slam of the year, commencing on the 18th of January in the city of Melbourne.
Historic Comeback to the Australian Courts
The event organizers announced on Friday that the 45-year-old legend will grace the courts again at Melbourne Park a staggering 28 years after her first appearance. During 1998, she defeated her younger sister Serena in the early stage before bowing out in the quarter-finals to fellow American Lindsay Davenport.
Gearing Up for the Australian Summer
The tennis star had previously revealed in November her intention to play in Auckland, New Zealand, where she also received a wild card, two weeks prior to the Melbourne event. The Australian Open added that Williams is also entered to play a tournament in Australia's Hobart International a week later, just before the start of play at Melbourne Park.
Her last appearance 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 as well as 2017.
"I am thrilled to be back in the country and looking forward to competing during the Australian summer," Williams stated. "I’ve had so many unforgettable moments there, and I’m grateful for the chance to go back to a venue that has meant so much to my professional journey."
By the Numbers
Williams' overall record at the Australian Open stands at an impressive 54 victories and 21 defeats. The upcoming edition will mark the 22nd time she has appeared in the primary tournament field.
Establishing a Fresh Benchmark
The tournament indicated that Williams is poised to be the most senior female player to compete in an Open's singles competition, surpassing the record formerly set by Japanese Kimiko Date, who was 44 when she was defeated in the first round at the venue in 2015.
Recent Personal Milestone
In late December, Williams married Denmark-born model and actor Andrea Preti in Palm Beach, Florida.
