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A seven-time Grand Slam singles champion Venus Williams has secured a wild-card entry for the Australian Open, commencing on January 18 in the city of Melbourne.

Historic Return to the Australian Courts

The event organizers confirmed on the weekend that the 45-year-old legend will make a return at Melbourne Park a remarkable 28 years after her first appearance. During 1998, she overcame her younger sister Serena in the second round before bowing out in the last eight to compatriot Lindsay Davenport.

Gearing Up for the Summer Swing

Venus had previously revealed in November her intention to compete in Auckland, New Zealand, where she also received a special entry, a fortnight prior to the Australian Open. Organizers added that Williams is scheduled to play a tournament in Australia's Hobart International a week later, immediately prior to the action begins at Melbourne Park.

Her most recent visit in Melbourne was in 2021, and she has finished runner-up in the women’s singles on two occasions, losing to Serena in the championship matches of 2003 and 2017.

"I am thrilled to return in Australia and looking forward to competing during the Australian summer," Venus stated. "I’ve had so many unforgettable memories there, and I’m thankful for the opportunity to return to a venue that has been so significant to my career."

By the Numbers

Williams' overall record at the Australian Open stands at an notable 54 victories and 21 defeats. The upcoming edition will represent the twenty-second occasion she has competed in the main draw.

Setting a New Record

Officials indicated that Williams is poised to be the most senior female player to take part in an Australian Open main draw, surpassing the record previously held by Japan’s Kimiko Date, who was forty-four when she lost in the opening round at the venue in 2015.

Recent Personal Milestone

In the final days of December, Williams wed Denmark-born model and actor Andrea Preti in Florida's Palm Beach.