The Legendary Williams, 45, Awarded Wild Card for First Melbourne Major in Five Years.
Seven-time Grand Slam title holder Venus Williams has secured a special invitation for the first Grand Slam of the year, which kicks off on January 18 in the city of Melbourne.
A Landmark Return to Melbourne Park
Tournament officials 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. During 1998, she overcame her younger sister Serena in the second round before bowing out in the quarter-finals to fellow American Lindsay Davenport.
Gearing Up for the Summer Swing
The tennis star had previously revealed in November her intention to play in Auckland, New Zealand, where she was likewise awarded a wild card, two weeks before the Australian Open. Organizers added that Williams is scheduled to play a tournament in Hobart, Australia a week later, just before 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 occasions, losing to Serena in the championship matches of 2003 and 2017.
"I am thrilled to return in Australia and eagerly anticipating competing during the summer season," Williams said. "I’ve had so many incredible moments there, and I’m thankful for the chance to return to a venue that has been so significant to my career."
Statistical Highlights
Williams' overall record at the Australian Open stands at an impressive 54 wins and 21 defeats. The upcoming edition will mark the 22nd time she has appeared in the primary tournament field.
Establishing a New Record
Officials pointed out that Williams is poised to be the oldest woman to compete in an Open's main draw, eclipsing the mark previously held by Japan’s Kimiko Date, who was 44 when she was defeated in the first round at Melbourne Park in 2015.
Recent Personal Milestone
In late December, Williams married Danish-born model and actor Andrea Preti in Florida's Palm Beach.
