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

A seven-time Grand Slam singles champion Venus Williams has secured a special invitation for the Australian Open, which kicks off on January 18 in Melbourne.

Historic Comeback to the Australian Courts

Tournament officials announced on Friday that the forty-five-year-old icon will grace the courts again at Melbourne Park a remarkable 28 years after her first appearance. During 1998, she overcame her sibling Serena in the early stage before bowing out in the quarter-finals to compatriot Lindsay Davenport.

Gearing Up for the Summer Swing

Venus had previously revealed in November her plans to compete in Auckland, New Zealand, where she was likewise awarded a wild card, a fortnight before the Melbourne event. Organizers noted that Williams is scheduled to participate in Hobart, Australia a week later, just before the start of play at the main venue.

Her most recent visit in the city was in 2021, and she has finished runner-up in the women’s singles on two separate instances, falling short against Serena in the championship matches of 2003 as well as 2017.

"I’m excited to return in the country and looking forward to competing during the summer season," Venus said. "I’ve had so many incredible moments there, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to go back to a venue that has meant so much to my professional journey."

By the Numbers

Williams' career statistics at Melbourne Park stands at an notable 54 victories and 21 losses. The upcoming edition will mark the 22nd time she has competed in the primary tournament field.

Setting a Fresh Benchmark

The tournament pointed out that Williams is set to become the most senior female player to compete in an Open's singles competition, surpassing the record previously held by Japan’s Kimiko Date, who was forty-four when she was defeated in the opening round at Melbourne Park in 2015.

Recent Life Event

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