Venus Williams, Receives Wild Card for Her Initial Melbourne Major in Five Years.
Seven-time Grand Slam singles champion Venus Williams has secured a special invitation for the first Grand Slam of the year, commencing on January 18 in the city of Melbourne.
Historic Comeback to Melbourne Park
Tournament officials announced on the weekend that the 45-year-old icon will grace the courts again at Melbourne Park a staggering 28 years after her debut. During 1998, she defeated her sibling Serena in the early stage before exiting in the quarter-finals to compatriot 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 also received a special entry, a fortnight before the Australian Open. The Australian Open noted that Williams is scheduled to play a tournament in Hobart, Australia a week later, immediately prior to the start of play at Melbourne Park.
Her last appearance in the city was in 2021, and she has been a finalist in the singles competition on two separate instances, falling short against Serena in the championship matches of 2003 as well as 2017.
"I am thrilled to be back in the country and eagerly anticipating competing during the Australian summer," Venus said. "I’ve had so many unforgettable moments there, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to return to a place that has meant so much to my career."
By the Numbers
Williams' career statistics at the Australian Open stands at an impressive 54 victories and 21 losses. The upcoming edition will mark the 22nd time she has competed in the primary tournament field.
Setting a New Record
Officials pointed out that Williams is set to become the oldest woman to compete in an Open's main draw, eclipsing the mark formerly set by Japanese Kimiko Date, who was forty-four when she lost in the opening round at the venue in 2015.
Latest Life Event
In the final days of December, Williams married Denmark-born model and actor Andrea Preti in Florida's Palm Beach.
