The Legendary Williams, 45, Awarded Wild Card for First Australian Open in Half a Decade.
Seven-time Grand Slam title holder Venus Williams has secured a special invitation for the first Grand Slam of the year, commencing on the 18th of January in the city of Melbourne.
A Landmark Return to the Australian Courts
Tournament officials confirmed on the weekend that the forty-five-year-old legend will make a return at the tournament venue a remarkable 28 years after her first appearance. Back in 1998, she defeated her sibling Serena in the early stage before exiting in the quarter-finals to fellow American Lindsay Davenport.
Preparing for the Summer Swing
Venus had previously revealed in the month of November her intention to play in Auckland, New Zealand, where she was likewise awarded a wild card, a fortnight prior to the Melbourne event. The Australian Open added that Williams is scheduled to play a tournament in Australia's Hobart International a following week, immediately prior to 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 singles competition on two occasions, falling short against Serena in the finals of 2003 and 2017.
"I am thrilled to be back in Australia and looking forward to competing during the summer season," Venus stated. "I have experienced so many unforgettable moments there, and I’m thankful for the chance to return to a venue that has been so significant to my professional journey."
By the Numbers
Williams' career statistics at Melbourne Park stands at an impressive 54 wins and 21 defeats. The upcoming edition will mark the 22nd time she has appeared in the main draw.
Establishing a New Record
The tournament pointed out that Williams is poised to be the most senior female player to take part in an Australian Open main draw, surpassing the mark previously held by Japanese Kimiko Date, who was 44 when she was defeated in the first round at the venue in 2015.
Latest Personal Milestone
In late December, Williams wed Denmark-born actor and model Andrea Preti in Palm Beach, Florida.
