Venus Williams, 45, Receives Special Entry for Her Initial Australian Open in Five Years.
A seven-time Grand Slam singles champion Venus Williams has secured a wild-card entry for the first Grand Slam of the year, which kicks off on January 18 in the city of Melbourne.
Historic Return to Melbourne Park
The event organizers announced on Friday that the 45-year-old icon will make a return at Melbourne Park a staggering 28 years after her first appearance. Back in 1998, she defeated her younger sister Serena in the second round before exiting in the last eight to compatriot Lindsay Davenport.
Gearing Up for the Australian Summer
Venus had earlier stated in the month of November her plans to play in New Zealand's Auckland Classic, where she also received a special entry, a fortnight prior to the Australian Open. Organizers added that Williams is scheduled to play a tournament in Hobart, Australia a following week, immediately prior to the start of play at Melbourne Park.
Her last appearance in the city was in the year 2021, and she has finished runner-up in the singles competition on two separate instances, falling short against Serena in the finals of 2003 and 2017.
"I am thrilled to be back in Australia and eagerly anticipating playing during the Australian summer," Venus stated. "I have experienced so many unforgettable moments there, and I’m grateful for the chance to return to a venue that has meant so much to my professional journey."
By the Numbers
Williams' career statistics at Melbourne Park stands at an impressive 54 victories and 21 losses. The upcoming edition will represent the twenty-second occasion she has competed in the primary tournament field.
Establishing a New Record
Officials indicated that Williams is poised to be the oldest woman to take part in an Australian Open singles competition, eclipsing the mark formerly set by Japanese Kimiko Date, who was forty-four when she lost in the opening round at the venue in 2015.
Recent Life Event
In the final days of December, Williams wed Denmark-born actor and model Andrea Preti in Palm Beach, Florida.
