Venus Williams, 45, Receives Special Entry for First Australian Open in Five Years.
Seven-time Grand Slam title holder Venus Williams has been granted a special invitation for the Australian Open, which kicks off on the 18th of January in the city of Melbourne.
Historic Return to Melbourne Park
Tournament officials announced on the weekend that the forty-five-year-old legend will make a return at Melbourne Park a remarkable 28 years after her first appearance. During 1998, she overcame her sibling Serena in the second round before bowing out in the quarter-finals to compatriot Lindsay Davenport.
Gearing Up for the Summer Swing
The tennis star had previously revealed in November her intention to play in New Zealand's Auckland Classic, where she also received a wild card, two weeks prior to the Melbourne event. Organizers added that Williams is also entered to participate in Hobart, Australia a week later, just before the start of play at Melbourne Park.
Her most recent visit in the city was in 2021, and she has finished runner-up in the women’s singles on two occasions, falling short against Serena in the finals of 2003 as well as 2017.
"I’m excited to be back in the country and looking forward to playing during the Australian summer," Williams stated. "I have experienced so many incredible memories there, and I’m thankful for the opportunity to return to a venue that has meant so much to my career."
By the Numbers
Williams' overall record at Melbourne Park stands at an notable 54 wins and 21 defeats. This year will represent the twenty-second occasion she has competed in the primary tournament field.
Setting a Fresh Benchmark
The tournament indicated that Williams is poised to be the most senior female player to take part in an Open's main draw, eclipsing the record previously held by Japanese Kimiko Date, who was 44 when she lost in the opening round at the venue in 2015.
Recent Life Event
In late December, Williams wed Danish-born model and actor Andrea Preti in Florida's Palm Beach.
