The Legendary Williams, Awarded Special Entry for Her Initial Melbourne Major in Five Years.
A seven-time Grand Slam title holder Venus Williams has been granted a special invitation for the Australian Open, commencing on January 18 in Melbourne.
A Landmark Return to the Australian Courts
The event organizers announced on the weekend that the 45-year-old legend will make a return at the tournament venue a staggering 28 years after her debut. Back in 1998, she defeated her sibling Serena in the second round before exiting in the quarter-finals to fellow American Lindsay Davenport.
Preparing for the Summer Swing
The tennis star had earlier stated in November her plans to play in Auckland, New Zealand, where she also received a wild card, a fortnight before the Melbourne event. The Australian Open noted that Williams is also entered to participate in Australia's Hobart International a week later, immediately prior to the start of play at Melbourne Park.
Her most recent visit in the city was in 2021, and she has been a finalist in the singles competition on two separate instances, falling short against Serena in the championship matches of 2003 as well as 2017.
"I am thrilled to return in Australia and eagerly anticipating competing during the Australian summer," Venus stated. "I have experienced so many incredible moments there, and I’m thankful for the opportunity to go back to a venue that has meant so much to my professional journey."
By the Numbers
Williams' overall record at Melbourne Park stands at an notable 54 wins and 21 losses. This year will mark the 22nd time she has appeared in the primary tournament field.
Setting a New Record
The tournament indicated that Williams is poised to be the oldest woman to compete in an Australian Open main draw, surpassing the record formerly set by Japan’s Kimiko Date, who was 44 when she lost in the first round at the venue in 2015.
Latest Personal Milestone
In late December, Williams married Danish-born actor and model Andrea Preti in Palm Beach, Florida.
