Venus Williams, 45, Receives Special Entry for Her Initial Melbourne Major in Five Years.
A seven-time Grand Slam singles champion Venus Williams has secured a wild-card entry for the Australian Open, which kicks off on the 18th of January in the city of Melbourne.
A Landmark Comeback to Melbourne Park
Tournament officials confirmed on Friday that the forty-five-year-old icon will grace the courts again at the tournament venue a remarkable 28 years after her first appearance. During 1998, she defeated her younger sister Serena in the early stage before exiting in the quarter-finals to compatriot Lindsay Davenport.
Preparing for the Summer Swing
Venus had previously revealed in November her intention to compete in New Zealand's Auckland Classic, where she also received a special entry, 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 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, losing to Serena in the finals of 2003 as well as 2017.
"I am thrilled to be back in the country and eagerly anticipating competing during the summer season," Williams said. "I’ve had so many unforgettable moments there, and I’m grateful for the chance to return to a venue that has meant so much to my professional journey."
Statistical Highlights
Williams' overall record at Melbourne Park stands at an notable 54 wins and 21 losses. The upcoming edition will represent the twenty-second occasion she has competed in the primary tournament field.
Establishing a Fresh Benchmark
The tournament pointed out that Williams is set to become the most senior female player to take part in an Australian Open singles competition, surpassing the mark formerly set by Japanese Kimiko Date, who was 44 when she was defeated in the opening round at Melbourne Park in 2015.
Recent Personal Milestone
In late December, Williams wed Danish-born actor and model Andrea Preti in Florida's Palm Beach.
