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

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

Historic Return to the Australian Courts

Tournament officials confirmed on the weekend that the 45-year-old icon will grace the courts again at the tournament venue a remarkable 28 years after her debut. During 1998, she overcame her younger sister Serena in the second round before bowing out in the last eight to fellow American Lindsay Davenport.

Preparing for the Australian Summer

The tennis star had earlier stated in the month of November her intention to compete in New Zealand's Auckland Classic, where she was likewise awarded a special entry, two weeks before the Australian Open. Organizers noted that Williams is scheduled to participate in Hobart, Australia a week later, immediately prior to the start of play at the main venue.

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

"I am thrilled to be back in the country and looking forward to playing during the summer season," Williams said. "I’ve had so many incredible memories there, and I’m grateful for the chance to return to a venue that has meant so much to my career."

By the Numbers

Williams' career statistics at the Australian Open stands at an impressive 54 wins and 21 losses. The upcoming edition will mark the twenty-second occasion she has appeared in the primary tournament field.

Setting a New Record

Officials pointed out that Williams is poised to be the oldest woman to compete in an Australian Open singles competition, eclipsing the mark previously held by Japan’s 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 model and actor Andrea Preti in Florida's Palm Beach.