The Legendary Williams, 45, Receives Wild Card for Her Initial Melbourne Major in Five Years.
Seven-time Grand Slam singles champion Venus Williams has been granted a special invitation for the first Grand Slam of the year, which kicks off on January 18 in Melbourne.
Historic Comeback to Melbourne Park
The event organizers announced on the weekend that the 45-year-old icon will make a return at Melbourne Park a staggering 28 years after her debut. Back in 1998, she defeated her sibling Serena in the second round before bowing out in the last eight to fellow American Lindsay Davenport.
Gearing Up for the Australian Summer
Venus had earlier stated in November her plans to compete in New Zealand's Auckland Classic, where she also received a wild card, two weeks prior to the Melbourne event. The Australian Open added that Williams is also entered to participate in Australia's Hobart International a following week, just before the start of play at Melbourne Park.
Her last appearance in Melbourne was in the year 2021, and she has been a finalist in the singles competition on two occasions, losing to Serena in the championship matches of 2003 and 2017.
"I’m excited to return in the country 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 place that has meant so much to my career."
Statistical Highlights
Williams' overall record at Melbourne Park stands at an impressive 54 victories and 21 defeats. The upcoming edition will represent the 22nd time she has appeared in the main draw.
Establishing a New Record
Officials pointed out that Williams is poised to be the oldest woman to compete in an Open's singles competition, eclipsing the mark formerly set by Japan’s Kimiko Date, who was forty-four when she lost in the opening round at the venue in 2015.
Latest Life Event
In the final days of December, Williams wed Denmark-born actor and model Andrea Preti in Palm Beach, Florida.
