Venus Williams, 45, Receives Wild Card for First Melbourne Major in Five Years.
A seven-time Grand Slam singles champion Venus Williams has secured a special invitation for the first Grand Slam of the year, commencing on the 18th of January in Melbourne.
Historic Comeback to the Australian Courts
The event organizers confirmed on Friday that the 45-year-old icon will make a return at the tournament venue a staggering 28 years after her first appearance. Back in 1998, she overcame her sibling Serena in the early stage before bowing out in the quarter-finals to fellow American Lindsay Davenport.
Preparing for the Summer Swing
The tennis star had previously revealed in the month of November her intention to compete in New Zealand's Auckland Classic, where she also received a special entry, two weeks before the Melbourne event. Organizers noted that Williams is scheduled to play a tournament 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 women’s singles on two occasions, falling short against Serena in the championship matches of 2003 and 2017.
"I am thrilled to be back in Australia and eagerly anticipating competing during the summer season," Venus stated. "I have experienced so many incredible moments there, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to return to a place that has meant so much to my professional journey."
By the Numbers
Williams' overall record at the Australian Open stands at an notable 54 wins and 21 losses. This year will represent the twenty-second occasion she has appeared in the primary tournament field.
Setting a New Record
The tournament indicated that Williams is set to become the most senior female player to take part in an Open's singles competition, eclipsing the mark previously held by Japanese Kimiko Date, who was 44 when she lost in the first round at the venue in 2015.
Latest Personal Milestone
In the final days of December, Williams wed Denmark-born model and actor Andrea Preti in Florida's Palm Beach.
