The Legendary Williams, 45, Receives Special Entry for First Australian Open in Half a Decade.
A seven-time Grand Slam title holder Venus Williams has been granted a special invitation for the first Grand Slam of the year, commencing on the 18th of January in Melbourne.
Historic Comeback to Melbourne Park
Tournament officials announced on the weekend that the forty-five-year-old legend will grace the courts again at the tournament venue a remarkable 28 years after her first appearance. During 1998, she defeated her sibling Serena in the early stage 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 play in Auckland, New Zealand, where she was likewise awarded a special entry, a fortnight prior to the Melbourne event. The Australian Open added that Williams is scheduled to play a tournament in Hobart, Australia a week later, immediately prior to the start of play at Melbourne Park.
Her last appearance in Melbourne was in 2021, and she has been a finalist in the women’s singles on two occasions, losing to Serena in the championship matches of 2003 and 2017.
"I am thrilled to be back in Australia and looking forward to competing during the Australian summer," Venus stated. "I have experienced so many unforgettable memories there, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to go back to a place that has meant so much to my career."
By the Numbers
Williams' career statistics at the Australian Open stands at an notable 54 wins and 21 losses. The upcoming edition will represent the twenty-second occasion she has competed in the main draw.
Establishing a Fresh Benchmark
Officials indicated that Williams is set to become the most senior female player to take part in an Australian Open singles competition, surpassing the record formerly set by Japan’s Kimiko Date, who was forty-four when she lost in the opening round at the venue in 2015.
Latest Personal Milestone
In the final days of December, Williams wed Danish-born actor and model Andrea Preti in Palm Beach, Florida.
