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Seven-time Grand Slam title holder Venus Williams has secured a special invitation for the Australian Open, commencing on January 18 in Melbourne.

Historic Return to the Australian Courts

The event organizers confirmed on the weekend that the forty-five-year-old legend will grace the courts again at Melbourne Park a remarkable 28 years after her first appearance. Back in 1998, she overcame her sibling Serena in the early stage before exiting in the quarter-finals to fellow American Lindsay Davenport.

Preparing for the Australian Summer

The tennis star had previously revealed in the month of November her plans to play in Auckland, New Zealand, where she was likewise awarded a wild card, two weeks before the Australian Open. Organizers added that Williams is scheduled to play a tournament in Hobart, Australia a week later, immediately prior to the start of play at the main venue.

Her most recent visit in Melbourne was in the year 2021, and she has been a finalist in the women’s singles on two occasions, losing to Serena in the championship matches of 2003 and 2017.

"I’m excited to return in the country and looking forward to competing during the summer season," Venus stated. "I have experienced so many unforgettable memories there, and I’m thankful for the opportunity to go back to a venue that has meant so much to my professional journey."

Statistical Highlights

Williams' overall record 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.

Establishing a New Record

The tournament pointed out that Williams is poised to be the most senior female player to compete in an Open's main draw, eclipsing the record formerly set by Japan’s Kimiko Date, who was forty-four when she lost in the opening round at the venue in 2015.

Recent Personal Milestone

In the final days of December, Williams married Denmark-born model and actor Andrea Preti in Palm Beach, Florida.