🔗 Share this article

A seven-time Grand Slam title holder Venus Williams has secured 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 forty-five-year-old icon will grace the courts again at Melbourne Park a remarkable 28 years after her debut. Back in 1998, she overcame her younger sister Serena in the second round before exiting in the quarter-finals to compatriot Lindsay Davenport.

Gearing Up for the Australian Summer

Venus had earlier stated in the month of November her plans to compete in Auckland, New Zealand, where she was likewise awarded a wild card, a fortnight before the Australian Open. Organizers noted that Williams is also entered to play a tournament in Australia's Hobart International a following week, just before the action begins 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 occasions, falling short against Serena in the championship matches of 2003 as well as 2017.

"I’m excited to be back in Australia and looking forward to competing during the Australian summer," Venus said. "I’ve had so many incredible 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' career statistics at the Australian Open stands at an impressive 54 wins and 21 losses. This year will represent the twenty-second occasion she has appeared in the primary tournament field.

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, eclipsing the mark previously held by Japan’s Kimiko Date, who was 44 when she was defeated in the opening round at the venue in 2015.

Recent Life Event

In late December, Williams married Danish-born actor and model Andrea Preti in Palm Beach, Florida.