The Legendary Williams, 45, Awarded Wild Card for First Australian Open in Five Years.

A seven-time Grand Slam title holder Venus Williams has secured a wild-card entry for the Australian Open, which kicks off on the 18th of January in the city of Melbourne.

Historic Comeback to Melbourne Park

The event organizers announced on the weekend that the 45-year-old icon will make a return at the tournament venue a remarkable 28 years after her first appearance. During 1998, she overcame her younger sister Serena in the early stage before exiting in the last eight to compatriot Lindsay Davenport.

Gearing Up for the Australian Summer

The tennis star had previously revealed in November her plans to play in Auckland, New Zealand, where she was likewise awarded a special entry, two weeks before the Australian Open. Organizers added that Williams is scheduled to play a tournament in Hobart, Australia a week later, immediately prior to the start of play at Melbourne Park.

Her most recent visit in Melbourne was in the year 2021, and she has been a finalist in the singles competition on two occasions, losing to Serena in the championship matches of 2003 as well as 2017.

"I’m excited to be back in the country and eagerly anticipating competing during the Australian summer," Williams stated. "I’ve had so many incredible memories 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 victories and 21 losses. This year will represent the 22nd time she has competed in the primary tournament field.

Setting a New Record

Officials pointed out that Williams is set to become the oldest woman to compete in an Open's singles competition, eclipsing the mark formerly set by Japanese Kimiko Date, who was forty-four when she was defeated in the first round at the venue in 2015.

Latest Life Event

In late December, Williams married Denmark-born actor and model Andrea Preti in Florida's Palm Beach.