🔗 Share this article

A seven-time Grand Slam singles champion Venus Williams has been granted a special invitation for the Australian Open, which kicks off on January 18 in Melbourne.

A Landmark Return to the Australian Courts

The event organizers confirmed on the weekend that the forty-five-year-old legend will make a return at Melbourne Park a staggering 28 years after her first appearance. Back in 1998, she overcame her younger sister Serena in the early stage before exiting in the last eight to compatriot Lindsay Davenport.

Gearing Up for the Summer Swing

Venus 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. Organizers added that Williams is also entered to play a tournament in Hobart, Australia a following week, just before the start of play at the main venue.

Her last appearance in the city was in 2021, and she has finished runner-up in the women’s singles on two separate instances, falling short against Serena in the championship matches of 2003 and 2017.

"I am thrilled to return in Australia and looking forward to playing during the Australian summer," Venus stated. "I’ve had so many incredible memories there, and I’m thankful for the chance to go back 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 notable 54 victories and 21 losses. The upcoming edition will represent the twenty-second occasion she has competed in the main draw.

Establishing a New Record

Officials indicated that Williams is set to become the most senior female player to take part in an Australian Open singles competition, eclipsing the record formerly set by Japanese Kimiko Date, who was 44 when she lost in the first round at Melbourne Park in 2015.

Recent Life Event

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