The Legendary Williams, 45, Awarded Special Entry for First Australian Open in Half a Decade.
Seven-time Grand Slam singles champion Venus Williams has been granted a special invitation for the Australian Open, commencing on the 18th of January in Melbourne.
Historic Comeback to Melbourne Park
Tournament officials confirmed on the weekend that the 45-year-old legend will make a return at Melbourne Park a staggering 28 years after her first appearance. During 1998, she defeated her younger sister Serena in the second round before exiting in the quarter-finals to fellow American Lindsay Davenport.
Preparing for the Summer Swing
Venus had earlier stated in the month of November her plans to compete in Auckland, New Zealand, where she also received a wild card, a fortnight before the Melbourne event. Organizers added that Williams is scheduled 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 finished runner-up in the women’s singles on two occasions, losing to Serena in the finals of 2003 and 2017.
"I’m excited to be back in the country and eagerly anticipating playing during the summer season," Venus stated. "I’ve had so many incredible memories there, and I’m thankful for the opportunity to go back to a venue that has meant so much to my career."
By the Numbers
Williams' overall record at the Australian Open stands at an impressive 54 wins and 21 losses. This year will mark the 22nd time she has appeared in the main draw.
Establishing a New Record
The tournament pointed out that Williams is set to become the oldest woman to take part in an Open's main draw, eclipsing the mark previously held by Japanese Kimiko Date, who was 44 when she was defeated in the first round at the venue in 2015.
Latest Life Event
In late December, Williams married Denmark-born model and actor Andrea Preti in Florida's Palm Beach.
