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Seven-time Grand Slam singles champion Venus Williams has been granted a special invitation for the Australian Open, commencing on the 18th of January in Melbourne.

A Landmark Comeback to the Australian Courts

The event organizers confirmed on the weekend that the 45-year-old legend will make a return at Melbourne Park a remarkable 28 years after her first appearance. Back in 1998, she defeated her younger sister Serena in the early stage before bowing out in the last eight to fellow American Lindsay Davenport.

Preparing for the Australian Summer

Venus had previously revealed in November her intention to compete in Auckland, New Zealand, where she was likewise awarded a special entry, a fortnight before the Australian Open. The Australian Open added that Williams is scheduled to play a tournament in Hobart, Australia a week later, immediately prior to the action begins at the main venue.

Her most recent visit in the city was in 2021, and she has been a finalist in the women’s singles on two separate instances, falling short against Serena in the finals of 2003 and 2017.

"I’m excited to return in the country and looking forward to competing during the Australian summer," Williams stated. "I’ve had so many unforgettable moments there, and I’m grateful for the chance to go back to a place that has been so significant to my career."

Statistical Highlights

Williams' overall record at Melbourne Park stands at an notable 54 victories and 21 losses. This year will mark the twenty-second occasion she has competed in the primary tournament field.

Setting a New Record

The tournament pointed out that Williams is poised to be the oldest woman to compete in an Open's singles competition, eclipsing the mark formerly set by Japan’s Kimiko Date, who was 44 when she was defeated in the opening round at the venue in 2015.

Latest Life Event

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