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Seven-time Grand Slam title holder Venus Williams has secured a special invitation for the Australian Open, commencing on the 18th of January in the city of Melbourne.

Historic Return to the Australian Courts

Tournament officials confirmed on Friday that the forty-five-year-old icon will grace the courts again at the tournament venue a remarkable 28 years after her debut. During 1998, she defeated her younger sister Serena in the second round before bowing out in the last eight to compatriot Lindsay Davenport.

Preparing for the Summer Swing

Venus had previously revealed in the month of November her plans to play in Auckland, New Zealand, where she also received a wild card, a fortnight before the Australian Open. The Australian Open added that Williams is also entered to participate in Australia's Hobart International a week later, immediately prior to the action begins at the main venue.

Her most recent visit in Melbourne was in the year 2021, and she has been a finalist in the women’s singles on two occasions, losing to Serena in the championship matches of 2003 and 2017.

"I am thrilled to return in the country and eagerly anticipating competing during the summer season," Williams stated. "I’ve had so many incredible memories there, and I’m grateful for the chance to go back to a place that has meant so much to my career."

By the Numbers

Williams' overall record at Melbourne Park stands at an notable 54 wins and 21 losses. The upcoming edition will represent the 22nd time she has competed in the main draw.

Setting a New Record

Officials indicated that Williams is poised to be the oldest woman to compete in an Open's singles competition, eclipsing the record formerly set by Japan’s Kimiko Date, who was forty-four when she was defeated in the first round at Melbourne Park in 2015.

Latest Personal Milestone

In the final days of December, Williams married Denmark-born model and actor Andrea Preti in Florida's Palm Beach.