Venus Williams, 45, Receives Special Entry for First Melbourne Major in Half a Decade.

Seven-time Grand Slam singles champion Venus Williams has secured a wild-card entry for the Australian Open, which kicks off on January 18 in the city of Melbourne.

Historic Comeback to the Australian Courts

The event organizers announced on Friday that the forty-five-year-old legend will grace the courts again at the tournament venue a remarkable 28 years after her debut. During 1998, she defeated her sibling Serena in the early stage before exiting in the quarter-finals to fellow American Lindsay Davenport.

Preparing for the Summer Swing

Venus had earlier stated in November her intention to compete in Auckland, New Zealand, where she also received a special entry, a fortnight prior to the Melbourne event. The Australian Open added that Williams is scheduled to play a tournament in Hobart, Australia a week later, immediately prior to the action begins at the main venue.

Her most recent visit in the city was in the year 2021, and she has finished runner-up in the women’s singles on two separate instances, losing to Serena in the finals of 2003 and 2017.

"I’m excited to return in the country and looking forward to competing during the Australian summer," Venus stated. "I have experienced so many unforgettable memories there, and I’m grateful for the chance to go back to a place that has meant so much to my career."

Statistical Highlights

Williams' career statistics at the Australian Open stands at an impressive 54 wins and 21 defeats. The upcoming edition will represent the 22nd time she has competed in the main draw.

Setting a New Record

The tournament indicated that Williams is set to become the most senior female player to take part in an Australian Open main draw, eclipsing the record previously held by Japan’s Kimiko Date, who was 44 when she was defeated in the first round at Melbourne Park in 2015.

Latest Life Event

In the final days of December, Williams wed Danish-born model and actor Andrea Preti in Florida's Palm Beach.