The Legendary Williams, Receives Special Entry for First Melbourne Major in Five Years.
A seven-time Grand Slam singles champion Venus Williams has been granted a wild-card entry for the first Grand Slam of the year, commencing on January 18 in Melbourne.
Historic Comeback to the Australian Courts
The event organizers announced on Friday that the forty-five-year-old icon will make a return at the tournament venue a staggering 28 years after her first appearance. During 1998, she defeated her sibling Serena in the early stage before exiting in the last eight to fellow American Lindsay Davenport.
Gearing Up for the Australian Summer
Venus had previously revealed in November her intention to play in New Zealand's Auckland Classic, where she also received a special entry, a fortnight prior to the Australian Open. The Australian Open noted that Williams is also entered to participate in Hobart, Australia a week later, just before the action begins at Melbourne Park.
Her last appearance in Melbourne was in 2021, and she has been a finalist in the singles competition on two occasions, 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 summer season," Williams said. "I’ve had so many unforgettable memories 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' overall record at the Australian Open stands at an impressive 54 victories and 21 defeats. This year will mark the 22nd time she has competed in the main draw.
Setting a New Record
The tournament indicated that Williams is set to become the most senior female player to take part in an Australian Open singles competition, eclipsing the mark formerly set by Japanese Kimiko Date, who was 44 when she was defeated in the opening round at the venue in 2015.
Recent Personal Milestone
In late December, Williams married Danish-born actor and model Andrea Preti in Florida's Palm Beach.
