The Legendary Williams, 45, Receives Wild Card for Her Initial Australian Open in Five Years.
Seven-time Grand Slam title holder Venus Williams has been granted a wild-card entry for the first Grand Slam of the year, commencing on January 18 in Melbourne.
Historic Return to Melbourne Park
Tournament officials confirmed on the weekend that the 45-year-old legend will make a return at Melbourne Park a staggering 28 years after her first appearance. During 1998, she defeated her sibling Serena in the second round before bowing out in the last eight to fellow American Lindsay Davenport.
Preparing for the Summer Swing
The tennis star had previously revealed in November her intention to play in Auckland, New Zealand, where she also received a special entry, two weeks before the Melbourne event. Organizers added that Williams is scheduled to play a tournament in Hobart, Australia a following week, just before the start of play at Melbourne Park.
Her last appearance in Melbourne was in the year 2021, and she has finished runner-up in the women’s singles on two separate instances, losing to Serena in the finals of 2003 as well as 2017.
"I am thrilled to be back in Australia and looking forward to playing during the Australian summer," Williams stated. "I have experienced so many incredible moments there, and I’m grateful for the chance to return to a place that has meant so much to my professional journey."
Statistical Highlights
Williams' overall record at Melbourne Park stands at an notable 54 victories and 21 defeats. The upcoming edition will represent the twenty-second occasion she has competed in the main draw.
Establishing a Fresh Benchmark
Officials pointed out that Williams is set to become the oldest woman to take part in an Open's main draw, eclipsing the mark previously held by Japan’s Kimiko Date, who was 44 when she lost in the opening round at Melbourne Park in 2015.
Latest Life Event
In late December, Williams married Danish-born actor and model Andrea Preti in Palm Beach, Florida.