Venus Williams, 45, Receives Wild Card for First Australian Open in Five Years.
Seven-time Grand Slam singles champion Venus Williams has been granted a special invitation for the first Grand Slam of the year, commencing on the 18th of January in Melbourne.
A Landmark Comeback to Melbourne Park
Tournament officials announced on Friday that the 45-year-old legend will make a return at the tournament venue a remarkable 28 years after her first appearance. 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
The tennis star had earlier stated in November her plans to play in New Zealand's Auckland Classic, where she was likewise awarded a special entry, a fortnight before the Melbourne event. The Australian Open noted that Williams is scheduled to participate in Hobart, Australia a following week, just before the action begins at the main venue.
Her most recent visit in Melbourne was in the year 2021, and she has finished runner-up in the women’s singles on two occasions, losing to Serena in the championship matches of 2003 as well as 2017.
"I’m excited to be back in the country and looking forward to playing during the summer season," Venus stated. "I’ve had so many incredible moments there, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to return to a place that has been so significant to my professional journey."
By the Numbers
Williams' career statistics at the Australian Open stands at an impressive 54 wins and 21 losses. This year will represent the 22nd time she has appeared in the main draw.
Setting a Fresh Benchmark
The tournament indicated that Williams is set to become the most senior female player to compete in an Open's singles competition, surpassing the mark formerly set by Japanese Kimiko Date, who was forty-four when she was defeated in the opening round at the venue in 2015.
Latest Life Event
In late December, Williams wed Danish-born model and actor Andrea Preti in Florida's Palm Beach.
