The Legendary Williams, 45, Receives Wild Card for First Melbourne Major in Five Years.
Seven-time Grand Slam title holder Venus Williams has been granted a special invitation for the Australian Open, commencing on the 18th of January in the city of Melbourne.
Historic Return to Melbourne Park
The event organizers confirmed on Friday that the 45-year-old icon will grace the courts again at the tournament venue a staggering 28 years after her debut. During 1998, she overcame her younger sister Serena in the early stage before exiting in the quarter-finals to fellow American Lindsay Davenport.
Gearing Up for the Summer Swing
Venus had previously revealed in November her plans to compete in New Zealand's Auckland Classic, where she also received a wild card, a fortnight prior to the Australian Open. The Australian Open noted that Williams is also entered to play a tournament in Australia's Hobart International a following week, immediately prior to the action begins at Melbourne Park.
Her most recent visit in the city was in the year 2021, and she has finished runner-up in the women’s singles on two separate instances, falling short against Serena in the championship matches of 2003 as well as 2017.
"I’m excited to return in Australia and looking forward to competing during the Australian summer," Venus stated. "I’ve had so many unforgettable moments there, and I’m thankful for the chance to go back to a place 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. This year will represent the twenty-second occasion she has appeared in the main draw.
Establishing a Fresh Benchmark
The tournament pointed out that Williams is poised to be the most senior female player to compete in an Open's singles competition, surpassing the mark previously held by Japan’s Kimiko Date, who was 44 when she lost in the first round at Melbourne Park in 2015.
Latest Personal Milestone
In the final days of December, Williams married Danish-born actor and model Andrea Preti in Palm Beach, Florida.
