The Legendary Williams, 45, Awarded Special Entry for First Melbourne Major in Five Years.
Seven-time Grand Slam title holder Venus Williams has been granted a wild-card entry for the first Grand Slam of the year, which kicks off on the 18th of January in Melbourne.
A Landmark Return to Melbourne Park
The event organizers confirmed on Friday that the forty-five-year-old legend will make a return at the tournament venue a staggering 28 years after her debut. Back in 1998, she overcame her younger sister Serena in the early stage before bowing out in the last eight to fellow American Lindsay Davenport.
Gearing Up for the Summer Swing
The tennis star had previously revealed in November her plans to play in New Zealand's Auckland Classic, where she also received a special entry, a fortnight prior to the Australian Open. The Australian Open added that Williams is scheduled to play a tournament in Hobart, Australia a week later, immediately prior to the start of play at Melbourne Park.
Her most recent visit in the city was in the year 2021, and she has been a finalist in the women’s singles on two separate instances, losing to Serena in the finals of 2003 and 2017.
"I am thrilled to return in Australia and eagerly anticipating playing during the summer season," Venus said. "I have experienced so many incredible moments there, and I’m grateful for the chance to return to a venue that has meant so much to my professional journey."
By the Numbers
Williams' career statistics at Melbourne Park stands at an impressive 54 wins and 21 losses. This year will mark the 22nd time she has appeared in the primary tournament field.
Setting a New Record
Officials indicated that Williams is poised to be the most senior female player to take part in an Open's singles competition, surpassing the record formerly set by Japanese Kimiko Date, who was 44 when she was defeated in the opening round at the venue in 2015.
Latest Life Event
In late December, Williams married Denmark-born actor and model Andrea Preti in Florida's Palm Beach.
