The Legendary Williams, 45, Awarded Special Entry for First Australian Open in Five Years.
A seven-time Grand Slam singles champion Venus Williams has secured a special invitation for the first Grand Slam of the year, which kicks off on the 18th of January in Melbourne.
Historic Return to Melbourne Park
Tournament officials confirmed on Friday that the forty-five-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 quarter-finals to compatriot Lindsay Davenport.
Preparing for the Summer Swing
The tennis star had previously revealed in the month of November her plans to compete in Auckland, New Zealand, where she also received a special entry, a fortnight prior to the Australian Open. Organizers added that Williams is scheduled to play a tournament in Australia's Hobart International a following week, immediately prior to the start of play at Melbourne Park.
Her last appearance in the city was in 2021, and she has been a finalist in the singles competition on two separate instances, falling short against Serena in the finals of 2003 and 2017.
"I’m excited to be back in the country and eagerly anticipating playing during the Australian summer," Williams said. "I’ve had so many unforgettable moments there, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to return to a place that has been so significant to my professional journey."
By the Numbers
Williams' career statistics at Melbourne Park stands at an notable 54 wins and 21 losses. This year will represent the twenty-second occasion she has appeared in the primary tournament field.
Establishing a New Record
The tournament pointed out that Williams is set to become the oldest woman to compete in an Australian Open singles competition, surpassing the mark previously held by Japanese Kimiko Date, who was 44 when she was defeated in the first round at Melbourne Park in 2015.
Latest Life Event
In the final days of December, Williams wed Danish-born model and actor Andrea Preti in Palm Beach, Florida.
