Venus Williams, Awarded Wild Card for Her Initial Australian Open in Five Years.
A seven-time Grand Slam title holder Venus Williams has been granted a special invitation for the Australian Open, which kicks off on January 18 in the city of Melbourne.
Historic Comeback to Melbourne Park
The event organizers announced on Friday that the 45-year-old icon will grace the courts again at the tournament venue a remarkable 28 years after her debut. Back in 1998, she overcame her younger sister Serena in the second round before exiting in the quarter-finals to compatriot Lindsay Davenport.
Preparing for the Summer Swing
Venus had previously revealed in November her intention to compete in Auckland, New Zealand, where she was likewise awarded a special entry, a fortnight prior to the Australian Open. The Australian Open noted that Williams is also entered to play a tournament in Hobart, Australia a following week, just before the start of play at the main venue.
Her last appearance in Melbourne was in 2021, and she has finished runner-up in the singles competition on two occasions, losing to Serena in the finals of 2003 and 2017.
"I’m excited to be back in the country and eagerly anticipating playing during the summer season," Williams stated. "I have experienced so many incredible memories there, and I’m thankful 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 notable 54 wins and 21 losses. This year will mark the twenty-second occasion she has competed in the main draw.
Establishing a New Record
Officials indicated that Williams is poised to be the oldest woman to take part in an Open's singles competition, eclipsing 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.
Latest Life Event
In late December, Williams wed Danish-born actor and model Andrea Preti in Palm Beach, Florida.
