Venus Williams, 45, Receives Special Entry for Her Initial Melbourne Major in Five Years.
A seven-time Grand Slam title holder Venus Williams has secured a wild-card entry for the first Grand Slam of the year, which kicks off on January 18 in the city of Melbourne.
A Landmark Return to the Australian Courts
Tournament officials announced on Friday that the 45-year-old legend will grace the courts again at the tournament venue a remarkable 28 years after her first appearance. Back in 1998, she defeated her sibling Serena in the early stage before exiting in the quarter-finals to fellow American Lindsay Davenport.
Preparing for the Summer Swing
The tennis star had earlier stated in the month of November her plans to play in Auckland, New Zealand, where she was likewise awarded a special entry, two weeks prior to the Australian Open. Organizers noted that Williams is also entered to participate in Hobart, Australia a week later, immediately prior to the start of play at Melbourne Park.
Her most recent visit in Melbourne was in 2021, and she has been a finalist in the women’s singles on two occasions, losing to Serena in the finals of 2003 as well as 2017.
"I am thrilled to be back in Australia and looking forward to playing 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 been so significant to my professional journey."
By the Numbers
Williams' overall record at Melbourne Park stands at an impressive 54 wins and 21 defeats. The upcoming edition will represent the twenty-second occasion she has appeared in the primary tournament field.
Establishing a Fresh Benchmark
Officials pointed out that Williams is set to become the most senior female player to take part in an Australian Open singles competition, eclipsing the mark formerly set by Japan’s Kimiko Date, who was forty-four when she was defeated in the first round at the venue in 2015.
Recent Personal Milestone
In late December, Williams wed Danish-born model and actor Andrea Preti in Florida's Palm Beach.
