Venus Williams, 45, Awarded Special Entry for First Australian Open in Half a Decade.
A seven-time Grand Slam singles champion Venus Williams has secured a special invitation for the first Grand Slam of the year, commencing on the 18th of January in Melbourne.
Historic Comeback to the Australian Courts
The event organizers confirmed on Friday that the 45-year-old legend will make a return at Melbourne Park a staggering 28 years after her first appearance. Back in 1998, she defeated her younger sister Serena in the second round before bowing out in the last eight to fellow American Lindsay Davenport.
Preparing for the Summer Swing
Venus had earlier stated in the month of November her plans to compete in Auckland, New Zealand, where she also received a wild card, a fortnight prior to the Melbourne event. The Australian Open noted that Williams is also entered to participate in Hobart, Australia a week later, just before the start of play at Melbourne Park.
Her last appearance in the city was in 2021, and she has been a finalist in the women’s singles on two separate instances, losing to Serena in the finals of 2003 and 2017.
"I’m excited to return in Australia and looking forward to playing during the Australian summer," Venus said. "I have experienced so many unforgettable moments there, and I’m grateful for the chance to return to a place that has been so significant to my career."
By the Numbers
Williams' overall record at the Australian Open stands at an impressive 54 victories and 21 losses. The upcoming edition will represent the 22nd time she has competed in the primary tournament field.
Setting a Fresh Benchmark
The tournament indicated that Williams is set to become the oldest woman to compete in an Open's singles competition, eclipsing the record previously held by Japan’s Kimiko Date, who was 44 when she was defeated in the opening round at the venue in 2015.
Recent Personal Milestone
In the final days of December, Williams wed Danish-born model and actor Andrea Preti in Palm Beach, Florida.
