Venus Williams, Receives Special Entry for First Melbourne Major in Half a Decade.
A seven-time Grand Slam title holder Venus Williams has secured a wild-card entry for the Australian Open, commencing on January 18 in Melbourne.
Historic Comeback to Melbourne Park
The event organizers announced on the weekend 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 second round before exiting in the last eight to compatriot Lindsay Davenport.
Preparing for the Summer Swing
Venus had earlier stated in November her plans to compete in New Zealand's Auckland Classic, where she also received a special entry, a fortnight prior to the Australian Open. The Australian Open added 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 been a finalist in the women’s singles on two separate instances, losing to Serena in the championship matches of 2003 and 2017.
"I’m excited to return in the country and eagerly anticipating competing during the Australian summer," Venus said. "I have experienced 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."
Statistical Highlights
Williams' overall record at the Australian Open stands at an impressive 54 wins and 21 defeats. The upcoming edition will represent the twenty-second occasion she has competed in the main draw.
Establishing a New Record
The tournament indicated that Williams is set to become the oldest woman to take part in an Australian Open main draw, eclipsing the record formerly set by Japanese Kimiko Date, who was 44 when she was defeated in the first round at Melbourne Park in 2015.
Recent Personal Milestone
In the final days of December, Williams married Danish-born model and actor Andrea Preti in Florida's Palm Beach.
