The Legendary Williams, Receives Special Entry for First Melbourne Major in Half a Decade.
A seven-time Grand Slam title holder Venus Williams has been granted a special invitation for the Australian Open, commencing on the 18th of January in the city of Melbourne.
Historic Return to the Australian Courts
Tournament officials announced on the weekend that the 45-year-old icon will make a return at Melbourne Park a remarkable 28 years after her debut. During 1998, she defeated her sibling Serena in the second round before bowing out in the last eight to fellow American Lindsay Davenport.
Gearing Up for the Australian Summer
The tennis star had previously revealed in the month of November her plans to play in New Zealand's Auckland Classic, where she was likewise awarded a special entry, a fortnight before the Melbourne event. The Australian Open added that Williams is also entered to participate in Australia's Hobart International a week later, just before the action begins at Melbourne Park.
Her most recent visit in Melbourne was in 2021, and she has finished runner-up in the women’s singles on two separate instances, falling short against Serena in the finals of 2003 as well as 2017.
"I am thrilled to return in the country and looking forward to competing during the summer season," Williams said. "I have experienced so many unforgettable moments there, and I’m thankful for the opportunity to go back to a place that has been so significant to my professional journey."
By the Numbers
Williams' career statistics at the Australian Open stands at an impressive 54 victories and 21 defeats. This year will mark the 22nd time she has appeared in the primary tournament field.
Setting a New Record
Officials pointed out that Williams is set to become the oldest woman to compete in an Australian Open singles competition, surpassing the mark formerly set by Japanese Kimiko Date, who was forty-four when she was defeated in the opening round at Melbourne Park in 2015.
Latest Personal Milestone
In late December, Williams wed Denmark-born actor and model Andrea Preti in Palm Beach, Florida.
