The Legendary Williams, 45, Receives Wild Card for First Australian Open in Half a Decade.
A seven-time Grand Slam title holder Venus Williams has secured a special invitation for the first Grand Slam of the year, commencing on January 18 in Melbourne.
Historic Return to Melbourne Park
Tournament officials announced on the weekend that the forty-five-year-old icon will make a return at Melbourne Park a remarkable 28 years after her first appearance. Back in 1998, she defeated her sibling Serena in the second round before exiting in the last eight to compatriot Lindsay Davenport.
Gearing Up for the Australian Summer
The tennis star had earlier stated in November her plans to compete in Auckland, New Zealand, where she also received a wild card, a fortnight before the Australian Open. Organizers noted that Williams is also entered to play a tournament in Hobart, Australia a following week, just before the action begins at Melbourne Park.
Her most recent visit in Melbourne was in 2021, and she has finished runner-up in the singles competition on two separate instances, falling short against Serena in the finals of 2003 and 2017.
"I’m excited to return in the country and looking forward to competing during the summer season," Williams stated. "I have experienced so many unforgettable moments there, and I’m grateful for the chance to return to a place 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 twenty-second occasion she has competed in the main draw.
Establishing a New Record
The tournament pointed out that Williams is set to become the most senior female player to compete in an Open's main draw, eclipsing the record formerly set by Japanese Kimiko Date, who was 44 when she was defeated in the opening round at the venue in 2015.
Latest Life Event
In the final days of December, Williams married Danish-born model and actor Andrea Preti in Florida's Palm Beach.
