Venus Williams, 45, Awarded Special Entry for Her Initial Melbourne Major 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, which kicks off on the 18th of January in Melbourne.
A Landmark Comeback to Melbourne Park
The event organizers confirmed on the weekend that the forty-five-year-old legend will grace the courts again at Melbourne Park a staggering 28 years after her debut. Back in 1998, she overcame her sibling Serena in the early stage before bowing out in the quarter-finals to compatriot Lindsay Davenport.
Gearing Up for the Summer Swing
Venus had earlier stated in November her plans to compete in Auckland, New Zealand, where she was likewise awarded a special entry, two weeks before the Melbourne event. The Australian Open noted that Williams is also entered to participate in Hobart, Australia a week later, immediately prior to the action begins at the main venue.
Her last appearance in the city was in the year 2021, and she has been a finalist in the women’s singles on two separate instances, 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 moments there, and I’m grateful for the chance to return to a venue that has meant so much to my professional journey."
By the Numbers
Williams' overall record at Melbourne Park stands at an impressive 54 victories and 21 defeats. This year will mark the 22nd time she has competed in the main draw.
Setting a Fresh Benchmark
Officials indicated that Williams is set to become the oldest woman to take part in an Australian Open singles competition, surpassing the mark previously held by Japan’s Kimiko Date, who was 44 when she lost in the first round at the venue in 2015.
Latest Personal Milestone
In late December, Williams married Danish-born model and actor Andrea Preti in Florida's Palm Beach.
