Venus Williams, Receives Special Entry for Her Initial Australian Open in Five Years.

A seven-time Grand Slam title holder Venus Williams has secured a wild-card entry for the Australian Open, which kicks off on January 18 in the city of Melbourne.

Historic Return to the Australian Courts

The event organizers announced on the weekend that the forty-five-year-old icon will grace the courts again at Melbourne Park a staggering 28 years after her debut. Back in 1998, she defeated her sibling Serena in the second round before bowing out in the last eight to compatriot Lindsay Davenport.

Preparing for the Australian Summer

The tennis star had earlier stated in the month of November her plans to compete in New Zealand's Auckland Classic, where she was likewise awarded a special entry, two weeks prior to the Melbourne event. The Australian Open noted that Williams is also entered to participate in Hobart, Australia a week later, immediately prior to the start of play at the main venue.

Her most recent visit in the city was in 2021, and she has finished runner-up in the singles competition on two occasions, losing to Serena in the finals of 2003 and 2017.

"I’m excited to return in the country and eagerly anticipating competing during the summer season," Williams said. "I have experienced so many incredible moments there, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to return to a venue that has been so significant to my career."

By the Numbers

Williams' career statistics at the Australian Open stands at an impressive 54 victories and 21 losses. This year will represent the twenty-second occasion she has competed in the primary tournament field.

Establishing a Fresh Benchmark

Officials indicated that Williams is poised to be the oldest woman to compete in an Australian Open main draw, surpassing the mark previously held by Japanese Kimiko Date, who was 44 when she lost in the opening round at the venue in 2015.

Recent Life Event

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