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Seven-time Grand Slam singles champion Venus Williams has secured a special invitation for the Australian Open, which kicks off on the 18th of January in Melbourne.

Historic Comeback to Melbourne Park

Tournament officials announced on Friday that the forty-five-year-old legend will make a return at Melbourne Park a staggering 28 years after her debut. Back in 1998, she overcame her younger sister Serena in the second round before bowing out in the quarter-finals to fellow American Lindsay Davenport.

Gearing Up for the Australian Summer

Venus had previously revealed in November her intention to play in Auckland, New Zealand, where she also received a special entry, a fortnight before the Australian Open. Organizers added that Williams is also entered to play a tournament in Hobart, Australia a week later, just before the start of play at the main venue.

Her most recent visit in the city was in the year 2021, and she has finished runner-up in the women’s singles on two occasions, falling short against Serena in the championship matches of 2003 as well as 2017.

"I am thrilled to be back in Australia and looking forward to playing during the Australian summer," Venus said. "I have experienced so many incredible memories there, and I’m thankful for the opportunity to go back to a place that has meant so much to my professional journey."

Statistical Highlights

Williams' overall record at the Australian Open stands at an notable 54 victories and 21 losses. This year will mark the twenty-second occasion she has competed in the primary tournament field.

Setting a New Record

Officials indicated that Williams is set to become the most senior female player to compete in an Open's main draw, surpassing 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 Palm Beach, Florida.