The Legendary Williams, Awarded Special Entry for Her Initial Melbourne Major in Five Years.
A seven-time Grand Slam singles champion Venus Williams has been granted a special invitation for the first Grand Slam of the year, commencing on January 18 in Melbourne.
A Landmark Comeback to Melbourne Park
Tournament officials announced on the weekend that the forty-five-year-old icon will grace the courts again at the tournament venue a remarkable 28 years after her first appearance. Back in 1998, she defeated her younger sister Serena in the early stage before bowing out in the last eight to compatriot Lindsay Davenport.
Gearing Up for the Summer Swing
The tennis star had previously revealed in the month of November her plans to compete in New Zealand's Auckland Classic, where she was likewise awarded a wild card, two weeks prior to the Melbourne event. The Australian Open noted that Williams is scheduled to play a tournament in Australia's Hobart International a week later, just before the action begins at the main venue.
Her most recent visit in Melbourne was in 2021, and she has finished runner-up in the women’s singles on two separate instances, losing to Serena in the championship matches of 2003 as well as 2017.
"I am thrilled to be back in Australia and looking forward to playing during the summer season," Williams said. "I’ve had so many incredible memories there, and I’m thankful for the chance to return to a place that has meant so much to my professional journey."
Statistical Highlights
Williams' overall record at the Australian Open stands at an notable 54 victories and 21 defeats. The upcoming edition will represent the twenty-second occasion she has competed in the primary tournament field.
Setting a New Record
Officials pointed out that Williams is set to become the oldest woman to take part in an Open's main draw, eclipsing the mark formerly set by Japan’s Kimiko Date, who was forty-four when she was defeated in the opening round at the venue in 2015.
Latest Personal Milestone
In late December, Williams married Danish-born model and actor Andrea Preti in Palm Beach, Florida.
