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A seven-time Grand Slam title holder Venus Williams has been granted a special invitation for the Australian Open, commencing on the 18th of January in Melbourne.

A Landmark Comeback to the Australian Courts

Tournament officials announced on the weekend that the 45-year-old icon will make a return at Melbourne Park a staggering 28 years after her debut. Back in 1998, she defeated her younger sister Serena in the second round before exiting in the last eight to compatriot Lindsay Davenport.

Gearing Up for the Australian Summer

The tennis star had previously revealed in the month of November her intention to play in Auckland, New Zealand, where she was likewise awarded a special entry, a fortnight before the Melbourne event. The Australian Open added that Williams is also entered to play a tournament in Hobart, Australia a following week, just before the action begins at Melbourne Park.

Her most recent visit in the city was in the year 2021, and she has been a finalist in the singles competition on two separate instances, losing to Serena in the finals of 2003 and 2017.

"I am thrilled to be back in the country and eagerly anticipating playing during the Australian summer," Williams said. "I have experienced so many incredible moments there, and I’m grateful for the chance to return to a venue that has meant so much to my professional journey."

By the Numbers

Williams' overall record at the Australian Open stands at an impressive 54 wins and 21 losses. This year will represent the twenty-second occasion she has appeared in the main draw.

Establishing a Fresh Benchmark

Officials indicated that Williams is set to become the oldest woman to compete in an Australian Open main draw, eclipsing the mark previously held by Japan’s Kimiko Date, who was 44 when she was defeated in the first round at the venue in 2015.

Recent Personal Milestone

In late December, Williams married Denmark-born model and actor Andrea Preti in Palm Beach, Florida.