The Legendary Williams, Awarded Special Entry for Her Initial Melbourne Major in Half a Decade.
Seven-time Grand Slam title holder Venus Williams has been granted a wild-card entry for the first Grand Slam of the year, commencing on the 18th of January in the city of Melbourne.
Historic Comeback to the Australian Courts
The event organizers announced on Friday that the 45-year-old legend will make a return at the tournament venue a remarkable 28 years after her first appearance. Back in 1998, she defeated her younger sister Serena in the second round before exiting in the last eight to compatriot Lindsay Davenport.
Preparing for the Australian Summer
The tennis star had previously revealed in November her plans to play in New Zealand's Auckland Classic, where she also received a special entry, two weeks prior to the Melbourne event. Organizers noted that Williams is also entered 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 the year 2021, and she has finished runner-up in the singles competition on two separate instances, falling short against Serena in the finals of 2003 and 2017.
"I am thrilled to return in Australia and looking forward to playing during the Australian summer," Venus said. "I have experienced so many unforgettable memories there, and I’m thankful for the opportunity to return to a venue that has been so significant to my professional journey."
By the Numbers
Williams' overall record at Melbourne Park stands at an impressive 54 wins and 21 defeats. The upcoming edition will represent the 22nd time she has competed in the main draw.
Establishing a Fresh Benchmark
The tournament pointed out that Williams is poised to be the most senior female player to compete in an Open's singles competition, eclipsing the mark formerly set by Japanese Kimiko Date, who was forty-four when she was defeated in the first round at Melbourne Park in 2015.
Recent Personal Milestone
In the final days of December, Williams married Denmark-born model and actor Andrea Preti in Palm Beach, Florida.
