Venus Williams, 45, Receives Special Entry for First Melbourne Major in Five Years.
A seven-time Grand Slam singles champion Venus Williams has been granted a special invitation for the first Grand Slam of the year, commencing on the 18th of January in the city of Melbourne.
A Landmark Return to the Australian Courts
The event organizers announced on the weekend that the forty-five-year-old legend will grace the courts again at the tournament venue a staggering 28 years after her debut. During 1998, she overcame her younger sister Serena in the second round before exiting in the last eight to fellow American Lindsay Davenport.
Gearing Up for the Summer Swing
Venus had earlier stated in the month of November her plans to compete in Auckland, New Zealand, where she also received a special entry, a fortnight prior to the Australian Open. The Australian Open added that Williams is scheduled to participate in Australia's Hobart International a following week, just before the start of play at Melbourne Park.
Her last appearance in Melbourne was in the year 2021, and she has been a finalist in the singles competition on two separate instances, falling short against Serena in the finals of 2003 and 2017.
"I’m excited to return in Australia and looking forward to competing during the Australian summer," Williams said. "I’ve had so many incredible memories there, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to return to a place that has been so significant to my professional journey."
Statistical Highlights
Williams' career statistics at the Australian Open stands at an impressive 54 wins and 21 defeats. This year will represent the twenty-second occasion she has competed in the primary tournament field.
Establishing a New Record
Officials pointed out that Williams is set to become the most senior female player to compete in an Open's singles competition, eclipsing the mark previously held by Japanese Kimiko Date, who was forty-four when she lost in the opening round at the venue in 2015.
Latest Personal Milestone
In late December, Williams wed Denmark-born model and actor Andrea Preti in Florida's Palm Beach.
