A seven-time Grand Slam singles champion Venus Williams has been granted a special invitation for the first Grand Slam of the year, which kicks off on January 18 in Melbourne.
The event organizers announced on Friday that the 45-year-old icon will grace the courts again at the tournament venue a staggering 28 years after her debut. During 1998, she overcame her sibling Serena in the early stage before bowing out in the last eight to compatriot Lindsay Davenport.
Venus had earlier stated in November her intention to play in Auckland, New Zealand, where she was likewise awarded a wild card, two weeks prior to the Australian Open. The Australian Open added that Williams is scheduled to play a tournament in Australia's Hobart International a week later, immediately prior to the action begins at the main venue.
Her last appearance in Melbourne was in 2021, and she has been a finalist in the singles competition on two separate instances, losing to Serena in the championship matches of 2003 as well as 2017.
"I’m excited to return in Australia and eagerly anticipating competing during the summer season," Williams 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."
Williams' overall record at the Australian Open stands at an notable 54 wins and 21 defeats. This year will represent the 22nd time she has appeared in the primary tournament field.
Officials pointed out that Williams is set to become the oldest woman to take part in an Australian Open main draw, surpassing the mark formerly set by Japan’s Kimiko Date, who was forty-four when she was defeated in the first round at Melbourne Park in 2015.
In the final days of December, Williams wed Denmark-born actor and model Andrea Preti in Florida's Palm Beach.
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