The Legendary Williams, 45, Receives Special Entry for First Australian Open in Five Years.
Seven-time Grand Slam title holder Venus Williams has been granted a special invitation for the first Grand Slam of the year, which kicks off on January 18 in Melbourne.
A Landmark Return to Melbourne Park
Tournament officials 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. During 1998, she overcame her sibling Serena in the early stage before exiting in the last eight to fellow American Lindsay Davenport.
Gearing Up for the Summer Swing
Venus had earlier stated in the month of November her intention to play in Auckland, New Zealand, where she also received a special entry, a fortnight before the Australian Open. The Australian Open added that Williams is scheduled to play a tournament in Australia's Hobart International a following week, immediately prior to the action begins at the main venue.
Her last appearance in Melbourne was in 2021, and she has finished runner-up in the singles competition on two separate instances, falling short against Serena in the championship matches of 2003 and 2017.
"I am thrilled to be back in the country and looking forward to playing during the Australian summer," Williams said. "I have experienced so many unforgettable moments there, and I’m thankful for the chance to return to a venue that has been so significant to my career."
Statistical Highlights
Williams' overall record at the Australian Open stands at an impressive 54 victories and 21 losses. The upcoming edition will mark the twenty-second occasion she has competed in the main draw.
Setting a Fresh Benchmark
Officials pointed out that Williams is set to become the most senior female player to take part in an Open's main draw, eclipsing the mark formerly set by Japanese Kimiko Date, who was forty-four when she was defeated in the first round at Melbourne Park in 2015.
Recent Personal Milestone
In the final days of December, Williams married Denmark-born actor and model Andrea Preti in Palm Beach, Florida.
