The Legendary Williams, 45, Receives Special Entry for First Melbourne Major in Half a Decade.
A seven-time Grand Slam singles champion Venus Williams has been granted a wild-card entry for the Australian Open, commencing on January 18 in the city of Melbourne.
Historic Return to Melbourne Park
The event organizers confirmed on the weekend that the 45-year-old icon will make a return at the tournament venue a staggering 28 years after her first appearance. Back in 1998, she overcame her sibling Serena in the early stage before bowing out in the last eight to compatriot Lindsay Davenport.
Preparing for the Summer Swing
The tennis star had previously revealed in November her plans to play in Auckland, New Zealand, where she also received a special entry, a fortnight before the Melbourne event. The Australian Open noted that Williams is scheduled to play a tournament in Hobart, Australia a following week, just before the action begins at the main venue.
Her most recent visit in Melbourne was in the year 2021, and she has been a finalist in the singles competition on two occasions, losing to Serena in the finals of 2003 as well as 2017.
"I’m excited to return in Australia and eagerly anticipating competing during the Australian summer," Venus said. "I’ve had so many incredible memories there, and I’m thankful for the chance to go back to a place that has been so significant to my career."
Statistical Highlights
Williams' career statistics at Melbourne Park stands at an notable 54 wins and 21 defeats. The upcoming edition will represent the 22nd time she has appeared in the main draw.
Setting a Fresh Benchmark
The tournament pointed out that Williams is poised to be the most senior female player to take part in an Open's singles competition, eclipsing the record 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 late December, Williams married Denmark-born actor and model Andrea Preti in Palm Beach, Florida.
