The Legendary Williams, 45, Receives Special Entry for Her Initial Melbourne Major in Half a Decade.
A seven-time Grand Slam title holder Venus Williams has been granted a wild-card entry for the first Grand Slam of the year, which kicks off on the 18th of January in Melbourne.
Historic Comeback to Melbourne Park
Tournament officials announced on the weekend that the forty-five-year-old legend will grace the courts again at Melbourne Park a remarkable 28 years after her first appearance. During 1998, she defeated her sibling Serena in the early stage before bowing out in the quarter-finals to compatriot Lindsay Davenport.
Gearing Up for the Australian Summer
The tennis star had earlier stated in the month of November her intention to play in New Zealand's Auckland Classic, where she was likewise awarded a special entry, a fortnight before the Australian Open. Organizers added that Williams is scheduled to participate in Hobart, Australia a week later, just before the action begins at Melbourne Park.
Her last appearance in Melbourne was in 2021, and she has been a finalist in the women’s singles on two occasions, falling short against Serena in the championship matches of 2003 as well as 2017.
"I am thrilled to be back in the country and looking forward to playing during the Australian summer," Williams said. "I’ve had so many unforgettable memories there, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to go back to a place that has meant so much to my career."
By the Numbers
Williams' overall record at Melbourne Park stands at an impressive 54 wins and 21 losses. The upcoming edition will represent the 22nd time she has appeared in the main draw.
Establishing a New Record
Officials pointed out that Williams is poised to be the most senior female player to compete in an Australian Open main draw, surpassing the record previously held by Japan’s Kimiko Date, who was forty-four when she was defeated in the first round at Melbourne Park in 2015.
Recent Life Event
In the final days of December, Williams wed Denmark-born actor and model Andrea Preti in Palm Beach, Florida.
