🔗 Share this article

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

A Landmark Return to Melbourne Park

The event organizers announced on the weekend that the 45-year-old icon will grace the courts again at Melbourne Park 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 quarter-finals to compatriot Lindsay Davenport.

Preparing 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 special entry, two weeks prior to the Australian Open. Organizers noted that Williams is scheduled to play a tournament in Hobart, Australia a following week, immediately prior to the action begins at Melbourne Park.

Her last appearance 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 and 2017.

"I’m excited to be back in Australia and eagerly anticipating playing during the Australian summer," Venus stated. "I’ve had so many unforgettable memories there, and I’m grateful for the chance to return to a place that has been so significant to my professional journey."

Statistical Highlights

Williams' career statistics at Melbourne Park stands at an impressive 54 wins and 21 defeats. This year will mark the twenty-second occasion she has appeared in the primary tournament field.

Setting a Fresh Benchmark

The tournament pointed out that Williams is poised to be the oldest woman to compete in an Open's main draw, eclipsing the mark previously held by Japanese Kimiko Date, who was 44 when she was defeated in the opening round at Melbourne Park in 2015.

Latest Personal Milestone

In the final days of December, Williams married Denmark-born actor and model Andrea Preti in Palm Beach, Florida.