The Legendary Williams, Receives Special Entry for First Melbourne Major in Five Years.
A seven-time Grand Slam title holder Venus Williams has been granted a special invitation for the first Grand Slam of the year, which kicks off on the 18th of January in Melbourne.
Historic Comeback to Melbourne Park
The event organizers confirmed on the weekend that the forty-five-year-old icon will grace the courts again at Melbourne Park a remarkable 28 years after her debut. During 1998, she overcame her younger sister Serena in the early stage before exiting in the quarter-finals to compatriot Lindsay Davenport.
Gearing Up for the Summer Swing
The tennis star had previously revealed in the month of November her plans to play in New Zealand's Auckland Classic, where she was likewise awarded a special entry, a fortnight before the Australian Open. The Australian Open noted that Williams is also entered to play a tournament in Australia's Hobart International a week later, just before the action begins at Melbourne Park.
Her last appearance in the city was in 2021, and she has been a finalist in the singles competition on two separate instances, losing to Serena in the championship matches of 2003 and 2017.
"I’m excited to return in Australia and eagerly anticipating playing during the Australian summer," Venus stated. "I have experienced so many unforgettable moments there, and I’m thankful for the chance to go back to a place that has meant so much to my professional journey."
Statistical Highlights
Williams' overall record at Melbourne Park stands at an impressive 54 wins and 21 defeats. This year will mark the 22nd time she has appeared in the primary tournament field.
Setting a New Record
The tournament indicated that Williams is set to become the oldest woman to take part in an Open's singles competition, surpassing the record formerly set by Japanese Kimiko Date, who was 44 when she was defeated in the opening round at Melbourne Park in 2015.
Latest Personal Milestone
In the final days of December, Williams wed Danish-born actor and model Andrea Preti in Florida's Palm Beach.
