The Legendary Williams, 45, Receives Wild Card for Her Initial Australian Open in Five Years.

Seven-time Grand Slam title holder Venus Williams has been granted a special invitation for the Australian Open, commencing on January 18 in Melbourne.

Historic Return to the Australian Courts

Tournament officials confirmed on the weekend that the forty-five-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 exiting in the last eight to compatriot Lindsay Davenport.

Gearing Up for the Australian Summer

Venus had earlier stated in November her plans to play in Auckland, New Zealand, where she also received a wild card, two weeks before the Australian Open. The Australian Open added that Williams is scheduled to participate in Hobart, Australia a week later, immediately prior to the start of play at Melbourne Park.

Her most recent visit in Melbourne was in 2021, and she has finished runner-up in the women’s singles on two separate instances, losing to Serena in the championship matches of 2003 as well as 2017.

"I’m excited to be back in Australia 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."

Statistical Highlights

Williams' career statistics at Melbourne Park stands at an impressive 54 victories and 21 defeats. The upcoming edition will mark the twenty-second occasion she has competed in the primary tournament field.

Establishing a New Record

The tournament pointed out that Williams is poised to be the oldest woman to compete in an Open's singles competition, eclipsing the record previously held by Japanese Kimiko Date, who was forty-four when she was defeated in the first round at the venue in 2015.

Latest Personal Milestone

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